Post-Harvest Losses Drop Among Nyandarua Farmers
Post-harvest losses for fresh vegetable farmers in Nyandarua County have decreased by over 90% under the Green Horticulture at Lake Naivasha Project (GOALAN). The project, funded by WWF, also improved water quality and quantity flowing into Lake Naivasha through sustainable farming practices.
Caroline Njiru, WWF programme coordinator in the Naivasha landscape, highlighted that the project addressed challenges such as deforestation, water pollution, and unsustainable farming. A total of 146 farmers were certified under the KS1758 standard, allowing their produce to access broader markets as pesticide-free.
Farmers received training in financial management and integrated pest management. William Ojwang from WWF noted that the EU-funded initiative benefited farmers across Nyandarua, Nakuru, and Narok counties. Sustainable farming practices included soil testing, controlled pesticide use, efficient water usage, and reduced abstraction from rivers and boreholes.
Sarah Wairimu, a Kinangop farmer, reported increased production and easier market access. She emphasized that reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides has now decreased significantly due to the project.