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More support needed for Agroecology & Women Empowerment: A call to ban harmful pesticides.

"We need financial support in agroecology and more women should be empowered in this sector!" – Cecilia Mmburungu, GROOTS Kenya

The curtains have closed on the Eastern Africa Agroecology Conference in Nairobi, marking yet another significant step toward transforming agricultural systems in the region. Building on the success of the inaugural conference in March 2013, this second edition brought together over 800 delegates from 42 African countries, all united in the mission to advance agroecology and sustainable food systems.

One of the conference's most resounding messages was the urgent need to empower women in agroecology. Farmers and experts alike emphasized that increasing support for women farmers will boost food security, enhance livelihoods and promote economic growth. Women play a crucial role in shaping sustainable food systems, yet many still lack access to essential resources, training and funding.

Another significant call was made to ban harmful pesticides, with a strong emphasis on promoting agroecology and agroforestry as sustainable alternatives to synthetic chemicals. Kenya’s Deputy Speaker, Gladys Boss Shollei, stressed the urgent need for the Pest Control Products Board and the Ministry of Agriculture to take immediate action to prohibit these hazardous pesticides. She highlighted the environmental dangers they pose and the long-term risks they create for future generations.

Despite the promise of agroecology in ensuring sustainable agriculture, many smallholder farmers continue to struggle due to limited financial support. Conference participants highlighted that only a small fraction of farmers currently benefit from agroecological programs, leaving the majority without the means to implement sustainable farming practices effectively.

One of the key calls to action from the conference is the allocation of dedicated funding for agroecology programs, with a special focus on women, youth and marginalized communities. This would enable more farmers to adopt sustainable practices, reduce dependency on harmful chemical inputs and improve overall food production.

Farmers also voiced concerns about land degradation caused by excessive chemical use, which threatens soil fertility and long-term agricultural sustainability. They urged collaborative efforts between governments, researchers and policymakers to restore degraded lands and encourage eco-friendly farming practices.

The Eastern Africa Agroecology Conference reaffirmed the need for stronger partnerships between farmers, policymakers, researchers and development organizations. Agroecology must become a central focus in agricultural policies, with substantial investments to support farmers practicing sustainable agriculture.

As we move forward, stakeholders must rally behind smallholder farmers, ensuring they receive the resources and recognition they deserve. Supporting agroecology means securing the future of food systems, protecting the environment and empowering communities—especially women and youth—who are at the heart of agricultural transformation.