Samuel Muthoka from Kavete Village, Mikuyuni Sub-location, Makueni County practicing 100% soil cover through mulching

In the semi-arid landscapes of Makueni County, where erratic rainfall and soil degradation pose significant challenges, Samuel Muthoka, a seasoned farmer from Kavete village in Mikuyuni Sub-location of Makueni County, embarked on a transformative journey to revitalize his farming practices.

Facing dwindling yields and escalating costs associated with conventional farming methods, Samuel sought innovative solutions to enhance soil fertility and moisture retention. Through training sessions facilitated by agricultural extension officers from Fadhili Trust, he was introduced to the practice of mulching—a technique involving the application of organic materials like crop residues, grass clippings, and leaves to cover the soil surface.

He attests that the mulch layer significantly reduced evaporation, maintaining consistent soil moisture levels even during dry seasons. Also, as the organic mulch decomposed, it enriched the soil with essential nutrients, fostering a thriving environment for crops and the mulch barrier inhibited weed growth,

reducing competition for nutrients and minimizing the need for manual weeding. In comparison, there are weeds, moisture is not retained, the soil has  hardpan, and the crops are not healthy.

Samuel says the adoption of mulching has led to a substantial increase in crop yields. Additionally, the improved soil health and moisture retention translated to significance reduction on water reliance, drastically cutting water usage.

Samuel’s success with mulching has not only transformed his farming operations but also inspired fellow farmers in Kavete village. He actively shares his experiences through local farmer groups and workshops, advocating for sustainable agricultural practices that enhance resilience against climate change.