World Vegetable Center releases new manual for sustainable vegetable production in Kenya

KENYA – The World Vegetable Center, alongside the Biovision Foundation and the IKEA Foundation, has launched a comprehensive manual aimed at boosting agroecological vegetable production in Kenya.

This manual is the result of extensive experience and aims to support the sustainable cultivation and consumption of vegetables.

The manual provides an in-depth analysis of the challenges faced by Kenyan vegetable producers. It offers practical, low-cost solutions for both African leafy vegetables and popular global varieties.

“This manual is designed to fill a critical knowledge gap and promote sustainable practices among farmers,” said a spokesperson from the World Vegetable Center.

Eight African leafy vegetables are highlighted in the manual: African nightshade (sutsa), spider plant (saka), slender leaf (mitoo), cowpea leaves (kunde), jute mallow (mrenda), pumpkin leaves (malenge), amaranth (mchicha), and kale (sukuma wiki).

Additionally, four global vegetables—tomato, onion, cabbage, and eggplant—are covered, reflecting their growing importance in central Kenya.

The manual is divided into four sections, starting with an introduction to the importance of vegetable production and consumption. Chapter 2 focuses on agroecology, explaining its principles and the reasons behind adopting agroecological practices.

Chapter 3 delves into the main agroecological management practices, offering insights into best practices and challenges faced. The final chapter provides specific guidance on managing individual vegetables, both African leafy and global varieties.

“This manual provides essential information for transitioning to agroecological production systems and maintaining healthy ecosystems,” noted the manual’s authors. They emphasized that the transition should be gradual and inclusive, encouraging producers to continuously monitor, document, and reflect on their practices.

The manual encourages the adoption of agroecological practices not as isolated measures but as part of a locally relevant combination of practices and inputs. This approach aims to reduce production costs for farmers while protecting human and ecosystem health.

The Greener Greens project, funded by the Biovision Foundation, and the Veggies Planet & People project, supported by the IKEA Foundation, played key roles in developing this manual. These projects focus on promoting safe and sustainable vegetable production across the world.

By adopting good agroecological practices, farmers can achieve sustainable and profitable farming, benefiting both themselves and the environment. The manual can be downloaded here.

Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.