By Gift Briton
Over the next two years, the Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International (CABI) will work with partners in Kenya, Zambia, and Benin to scale up the use of nature-based solutions for farming.
Through the project, thousands of farmers will have access to sustainable solutions that protect the environment and ensure the production of healthier food.
CABI scientists will collaborate with colleagues from the University of Abomey-Calavi in Benin, Exotic Green Enterprises in Zambia, and Twiga Chemical Industries in Kenya.
“There is a growing shift towards nature-based solutions because inorganic products like chemical fertilizers can be harmful to the environment and food safety. Adopting nature-based solutions not only conserves biodiversity but also ensures safer food production,” said Dr. Joseph Mulema, Senior Scientist at CABI and Project Manager. “Our key focus is making these solutions accessible and affordable for farmers.”
In Kenya, the project will introduce the biopesticide Xentari DF to protect broccoli from caterpillar infestations. Currently registered for use in coffee, roses, and carnations, this product will now be made available for vegetable farmers.
“One of the biggest challenges for broccoli farmers is caterpillars. Since broccoli is one of Kenya’s major exports, this biopesticide offers a solution without leaving chemical residues, unlike conventional pesticides,” explained Edward Kitui, Business Development Manager at Twiga Chemicals.
Additionally, the biofungicide, Remedier WP, will be promoted to combat pests and diseases in tomatoes and carnations.
This initiative is expected to benefit over 5,000 farmers across 16 counties, including Bomet, Embu, Homa Bay, Kericho, Kilifi, Kirinyaga, Kisii, Lamu, Machakos, Migori, Mombasa, Narok, Nyamira, Taita Taveta, Trans Nzoia, and Uasin Gishu.
“We are working with CABI to bring these solutions to small-scale farmers. Many effective products exist, but making them available to farmers requires resources. This partnership will help ensure that farmers are aware of and can access these products, ultimately contributing to sustainable food production,” Kitui added.
In Benin, the focus will be on increasing maize yields through the use of MycoBen, a biostimulant that enhances crop growth while reducing the need for mineral fertilizers. Research has shown that this product significantly improves maize performance, making it a promising solution for farmers looking to boost productivity in an environmentally friendly way.
In Zambia, the project will promote VH Microorganisms, a locally produced probiotic biostimulant that contains sea minerals and beneficial microorganisms. This product has already successfully improved the vigour and yields of groundnuts.
Once fully registered for widespread use, up to 5,000 farmers in five of Zambia’s 10 provinces are expected to adopt the product within the next five years.
The project is receiving financial support from the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), which has allocated €250,000 for the initiative. These funds will be managed by CABI and distributed among project partners to facilitate research, communication, market penetration, and the final stages of product registration.
“We are providing funding to support the last phase of development, ensuring that these solutions reach farmers. Our goal is to scale up local alternatives and reduce dependence on imported chemical fertilizers,” said Elena Benedetti, Head of Fundraising and Tech Transfer at ICGEB.
