The Biovision Africa Trust (BvAT) has trained journalists to promote agroecology through effective farmer content production and dissemination reporting.
The training workshop for journalists marks an important step towards creating a robust network of informed journalists ready to champion agroecology, transforming Kenya’s agricultural sector.
Agroecology is an academic discipline that studies ecological processes applied to agricultural production.
The one-day training under BvAT Farmer Communication Programme (FCP) brought together journalists from various media houses centered on the Agroecology Journalism Challenge, equipping participants with the skills and knowledge to effectively report on agroecology.
Farmer Communication Programme Coordinator Fredrick Ochieng,’ while speaking during a workshop at ICIPE in Nairobi said that the training emphasized on framing agroecology narratives to resonate with farmers and the community, while addressing concerns about food security and environmental health
Ochieng’ said the workshop also deepened journalists’ understanding of agroecology and its principles, while highlighting its significance in transforming the country’s agricultural sector.
“Participants explored how agroecological practices can enhance food security, promote sustainable farming, and help communities adapt to the challenges posed by climate change,” he said.
The programme coordinator underscored the critical role journalists play in connecting farmers who are practicing agroecology with research and innovations, ensuring that practical solutions reach those who need them most.
“We are committed to promoting responsible journalism as a catalyst for agroecological transformation in Kenya’s agricultural sector,” he added.
Ochieng’ said the organization is committed to supporting farmers through sustainable agricultural practices and highlighted success stories that showcased the transformative impact of agroecology in local communities.
He said the workshop also helped in fostering partnerships between journalists and agroecology-focused organizations like BvAT and International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE).
“These collaborations aim to empower journalists with the resources, research, and expert perspectives needed to produce comprehensive, accurate, and engaging content on agroecology,” he said.
ICIPE Head of Technology Transfer Unit Dr. Takemore Chagomoka in his presentation gave an overview of the organization and its contributions to agroecology through research and innovation.
Journalists were introduced to ICIPE’s work guided by the 4H paradigm of Human health, Animal Health, Plant Health and Environment Health in integrated pest management and soil health improvement.
Dr. Chagomoka highlighted some of the key researches on Biopesticides and organic fertilizers and technologies produced such as Push pull, Tsetse collars, insect for food and seed, stingless bees among others.
Outreach Manager Christopher Rwanda took the journalists through the 13 Agroecology elements to improve journalists’ knowledge of agroecology and its critical role in food security, climate resilience, and sustainable development.
“The message of agroecology can reach farmers, policymakers, and the broader public, driving the adoption of practices that ensure a sustainable future for agriculture,” he said.
On his part, The Organic Farmer Radio Project Officer Musdalafa Lyaga emphasized on the need for journalists to prioritize fact-checking of information and draw from credible sources to build trust and foster understanding among their audiences.
Lyaga encouraged journalists to develop content that uses simple and relatable language that aligns to farmers’ challenges, while showcasing innovative agroecological practices.
“By equipping media professionals with the tools to effectively communicate the benefits of agroecology, BvAT is fostering a greater understanding of its role in addressing the country’s agricultural challenges,” he said.
By Anita Omwenga
