Over 1,300 Kenyan Farmers Graduate from Groundbreaking Agroforestry Program
After four years of dedicated training, Trees for the Future (TREES), in collaboration with Catona Climate, proudly announces the graduation of more than 1,300 farmers from its innovative Forest Garden Program in Homa Bay, Kenya. This UN-recognized initiative aims to combat climate change by enhancing tree biomass and soil carbon through sustainable agroforestry practices.
The program teaches farmers essential skills in Forest Garden planning and design, composting, grafting, crop rotation, cover cropping, and integrated pest management, alongside promoting knowledge sharing and cooperative entrepreneurship. With the participation of over 15,000 local smallholder farmers, the project develops multi-tiered agroforestry systems, enabling improved food security, income generation, and community investment.
The graduation ceremony on September 14, 2024, celebrated this significant milestone, attended by families, government leaders, and community chiefs.
Participants have been actively reversing the effects of deforestation and land degradation. A recent bioacoustic study revealed over 100 species of birds, amphibians, and insects across 70 sampling sites, supporting the idea that transitioning to agroforestry enhances biodiversity.
“These graduates exemplify that sustainable agriculture leads to prosperity,” said Mercy Karunditu, Director of Field Programs for TREES. “Their dedication, supported by Catona Climate, has brought real improvements to their lives and lands.”
Many graduates are already reporting increased crop yields and new income opportunities, such as selling surplus produce and harvesting seeds for sale. Dorothy Onyango, one of the graduates, shared how her involvement improved her soil’s fertility and moisture, allowing her to pay school fees for her grandchildren.
Among the 1,303 graduates, 62% are women and 25% are young farmers, who together have restored 568 hectares and planted over 4.7 million trees. Their efforts are expected to benefit approximately 8,920 community members.
“By embracing agroforestry, these farmers are fostering resilient landscapes and contributing to climate solutions,” noted Tate Mill, CEO of Catona Climate. “Their achievements inspire hope for their communities and the planet.”
TREES plans to expand its Forest Garden Program across Kenya, aiming to restore 229,000 hectares and create 230,000 green jobs by 2030. The success of the Homa Bay graduates highlights the critical role of partnerships among local communities, government, and organizations like Catona Climate in tackling land degradation, food insecurity, and climate change.
