Blog Navigating the Road to Sustainability: Kenyan Universities Embracing Environmental and Social Safeguards
Four of Kenya's leading universities are implementing improvements in environmental and social safeguards, as a measure for safe farming practices.
By: Adams Kwaw, Assenath Kabugi, Esther Nzuki, Owen Kimani
“You cannot protect the environment unless you empower people, inform them, and help them understand that these resources are their own: that they must protect them.” Professor Wangari Maathai, Kenyan Nobel Laureate and environmental activist.
In Kenya, agriculture underpins socio-economic structures, with farming being a vital occupation that provides food and resources to communities. However, the intensive application of agrochemical pesticides, irrespective of their inherent dangers, is contributing to alarming degradation of human and environmental health.
The urgency in enforcing environmental and social safeguard measures in farming practices is increasingly recognized. Pesticide development involves a multidisciplinary approach, and universities play a crucial role in research and education. University extension programs provide vital information and support to farmers and surrounding communities on agriculture and the use of pesticides.
Improvements in environmental and social safeguards are being implemented by four of Kenya’s leading universities with a focus on agricultural science: Murang'a University of Technology, Chuka University, Taita Taveta University, and Laikipia University. These universities are leading the change by integrating environmental and social safeguards into their agricultural programs, setting an example for others to follow.
We all have a role to play in this endeavor. We can contribute to a healthier environment and society by supporting sustainable farming practices and staying informed.
