Maragua Constituency borders Machakos County which is characterized with low unpredictable rainfall a pattern which is insufficient leading to crop failure. Most farmers here use conventional farming approaches by applying chemicals and fertilizers which have destroyed the soils. There is also increased adoption of exotic varieties of crops by farmers. Traditional food crops have been abandoned and farmers have shifted to hybrid crops which are prone to pests and diseases.
With support from Caritas, Bethel Network works with technical advisors and community animators promote access to food and basic necessities through training at the household level to the identified farmers whose primary livelihood activity is agriculture. This is achieved through the adoption of sustainable approaches, combination of classroom theory and practical field work sessions. Aside this, selected small-scale and farmer groups are empowered on agro-ecological practices to gain skills that will help them thrive on both rural and semi urban farming environments. The project also provides a solid foundation for creating resilient local food webs that can survive challenges and foster community spirit better than large-scale industrialized farms.
