Supporting smallholders in organic crop cultivation: the case of East Africa

Publication date: 29/11/2018
Extent: 14 pages

Contributions by: R. Onwonga, University of Nairobi, Kenya; K. P. Sibuga, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania; H. Nduku, University of Nairobi, Kenya; L. Sigsgaard, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; A. Saria and L. Shechambo, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania; M. Montoro, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; C. Chepkoech, Q. Genga and R. Wahome, University of Nairobi, Kenya; N. Halberg, Aarhus University, Denmark; and H. Høgh-Jensen, Technical University of Denmark, Denmark

Chapter synopsis: The value chains of several vegetables and other crops in Eastern Africa are growing in volume and value and are potentially making an impact on the livelihood of the involved producers, processers, transporters, retailers and sales-sites. This chapter reports the outcomes of selected ProGrOV case studies in East Africa involving farmers, students and scientists together with advisors from organic organizations in developing and testing agroecological practices for the intensification of kale, maize, sweet pepper and tomatoes for organic markets. After outlining the methodology of the field study approach, the chapter examines challenges and innovations in pest, weed and soil fertility management. Finally, the chapter looks ahead to future research trends in this area and suggests further reading on the subject.

DOI: 10.19103/AS.2017.0029.20