In the heart of Kwale County, the Sikiliza Sauti Yetu (SSY) project is sowing the seeds of climate resilience through a powerful grassroots approach. Women and youth, organized into mini farmer groups, are at the center of this transformative work. From sharing farming inputs to supporting group registration, the SSY team is committed to walking alongside these communities as they build sustainable livelihoods.
A key milestone is the establishment of a functional demonstration farm, which will serve as a training and innovation hub. Progress among the groups is being closely tracked, ensuring that lessons are learned and success is shared. Each group has also selected two representatives to join a newly forming farmer cooperative, giving them a voice in shaping larger-scale farming initiatives.
While the journey has seen its fair share of challenges—such as water shortages and crop destruction by monkeys in Lunga Lunga—the determination of these farmers remains unwavering. They’re thriving with high-value crops like moringa and hibiscus, and many are reaping the benefits of selling organic vegetables such as mchicha, mrenda, terere, and cassava.
Seaweed farming, a vital part of the blue economy and especially important to women, has suffered due to climate change. Yet, the community remains undeterred. With an eye on sustainability, the farmers are adopting practices that not only feed their families but also preserve the environment.
The SSY project in Kwale is more than farming—it’s about empowerment, climate action, and building a future where no voice is left behind.