In Kenya, it is estimated that 3000 tonnes of waste are produced daily, with over 70% being organic waste. To deal with this, various waste management processes have been championed to help transform waste into forms that can be used for economic or environmental benefit. Composting, which can also be termed a process of turning waste into “gold,” is one avenue through which organic waste is recycled into a valuable product.
For organic farmers, composting is not only a way of practising sustainable agriculture but also a good opportunity to gain sustainable economic benefits. Organic farm waste can be converted into a nutrient-rich fertiliser that can be sold to generate income. Over the recent years, more organic farmers have realised the benefit of organic fertiliser for the soil and environment. Although chemical fertilisers are beneficial in increasing productivity, overreliance has led to a decline in soil health. Moreover, with the increase in the price of synthetic fertilisers, most farmers have opted to use organic manure.
According to Priscah, an organic farmer in Shibuli village, Kakamega, composting is one of the easiest ways to conserve the environment while making money. Pit composting, which is the method she uses, involves digging a pit, filling it with organic plant, animal, and kitchen waste, and burying it for several weeks. By applying a structured composting method taught to her by Biovision Africa Trust field officers in Kakamega, Priscah has been doing aerobic pit composting for the past several months.
“Although chemical fertilisers are beneficial in increasing productivity, overreliance has led to a decline in soil health. Moreover, with the increase in the price of synthetic fertilisers, most farmers have opted for organic manure.”
She became interested in starting a composting business because of the demands of organic farming.. The need for affordable manure that effectively enhances soil nutrients and productivity prompted her to pursue composting, not just for her own farm but also to support other farmers in her community.. From the two large compost pits on her land, Priscah makes enough manure for her personal use and sale. “When ready, the compost manure I produce can fit two lorries, which translates to approximately Ksh. 30,000.
With only the animal and plant waste from her small farm, Priscah’s composting business has given her the following benefits;
1.Income generation The sale of organic compost has become a good source of income due to the increase in preference for it over synthetic fertilisers.
Conservation of the environment Since organic compost comprises waste materials, recycling is one of the benefits accrued. Organic waste from the farm is aggregated and turned into manure, thus enabling environmental conservation.
Improvement in soil quality Compost manure applied to the farm improves the soil quality and health. It increases the cohesiveness of the soil, making it more resistant to soil erosion and increasing its capacity to retain water. The introduction of humus and microbes enriches the soil, resulting in the growth of strong, healthy plants.
Enhanced livelihood of the community
By selling compost manure to other farmers in the community, the quality and quantity of food produced in the area have improved. This has led to an overall improvement in the livelihoods of community members.
Composting has now become a profitable agribusiness opportunity that aims to enhance farm productivity and environmental conservation. Farmers like Priscah, who have embraced composting, can pride themselves on enjoying economic benefits while contributing to sustainable agriculture.
