By Erdly Agona
When farmers in Busia County tune in to Emuria FM, they don’t just hear music and news they also learn how to improve their farms and health through agroecology. Behind the microphone is Patrick Okumu, widely known by his listeners as Jeraha, a presenter and reporter who has become one of the station’s strongest advocates for sustainable farming.
Patrick’s passion for agroecology was sparked after attending a training organized by Biovision Africa Trust. “Through my field reporting and agricultural programs, I was invited to a training on agroecology by BvAT, from which I leant that farming could be done differently through organic practices, climate awareness, and ecological solutions,” he says.
Before that, his reporting mostly covered conventional agriculture. Now, his stories highlight composting, mulching, crop rotation, and organic alternatives to chemical inputs. He also connects farming to public health, producing stories on how nutrition helps tackle diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure
Listeners have responded positively. Farmers no longer burn crop residues but turn them into compost, while others have embraced fish farming for both income and nutrition. “Many farmers tell me they learned about these practices from Emuria FM programs and our WhatsApp platforms,” Patrick says.
Still, challenges remain. He points out that government distribution of synthetic, while limited access to soil testing services slows progress. High poverty levels in Busia also make it difficult for farmers to access agricultural support, and for journalists like Patrick, transport and equipment costs remain hurdles.
Yet, his work continues to open doors. Today, he is frequently invited by farmers’ groups, the County Agriculture Department, and NGOs to cover agricultural events. “It shows the trust we’ve built around agroecology reporting,” he says.
Looking forward, Patrick calls for more mentorship, advanced training, and support with tools such as cameras and transport to strengthen his reporting. His message to fellow journalists is simple: “With climate change and environmental challenges, agroecology is the way forward. Reporting on it doesn’t just inform it changes lives.
He also extends appreciation to Biovision Africa Trust and the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation (SSNC) for their support. “They have opened our eyes. Even at home, I now practice organic farming mulching, crop rotation, and soil-friendly methods. If these trainings continue, more communities will adopt agroecology, and we, as journalists, are ready to spread the message.”