The CHEF Project
In Kenya’s Central Highlands, a new program is changing how people farm while taking care of the environment. This initiative, known as the Central Highlands Ecoregion Foodscapes (CHEF) program, is led by The Nature Conservancy (TNC), in partnership with CETRAD and other organizations. The goal is simple but powerful: to help farmers adopt more sustainable ways to grow food while ensuring the health of the land and water they rely on.
The CHEF program focuses on regenerative agriculture, which is a way of farming that works with nature instead of against it. The program encourages practices like agroforestry (planting trees alongside crops), planned rotational grazing, and using natural methods to keep soil healthy. By improving how farmers take care of the land, the program aims to make farms more productive, increase biodiversity, and protect important natural resources like water.
CETRAD is playing an important role in the CHEF project, especially when it comes to caring for rangelands. Rangelands are areas where animals graze, and they are vital for both the local economy and the environment. CETRAD is helping communities improve how they manage these lands, using practices like sustainable grazing and better pasture management. This is important in the Central Highlands, where so many people depend on livestock.
Lorian/OMC water project intake Ewaso Narok WRUA. Photo: Moses Wangwa / CETRAD
Water is one of the most critical resources in the Central Highlands. The region is known as Kenya’s “food basket,” meaning that a large amount of the country’s food is produced here. But without proper water management, farming becomes difficult, especially during dry periods. The CHEF program is addressing this by improving water use efficiency. CETRAD is working on ways to help farmers use water more wisely, including through end-user metering, which helps track and control water usage in farming. This ensures that farms can thrive without wasting water.
The CHEF program also focuses on improving market systems and influencing policies to support sustainable farming. The program is working with policymakers to develop policies that encourage farmers to adopt regenerative agriculture. A key part of this is optimizing livestock fodder value chains, ensuring farmers can access the fodder they need for their livestock while also protecting the environment. This is especially important in a region where many people rely on livestock for their livelihood.
One of the most impactful aspects of the CHEF project is its focus on building local capacity. CETRAD is actively involved in training Water Resource Users Associations (WRUAs). These local groups help manage water resources in their communities, ensuring that water is used wisely and sustainably. By strengthening WRUAs, the CHEF program is ensuring that water management practices will remain in place long after the project is completed.
Joseph Mbuthia (left), Daniel Mwatha Minjira and Joseph Muhiu Gikere are part of Matanya Hay Growers Cooperative. Photo: Roshni Lodhia
A standout feature of the CHEF project is the creation of the Foodscape Innovation Hub. This hub brings together different stakeholders—from farmers to researchers—to work on new ideas and technologies that can improve farming. One exciting initiative within the hub is the creation of fodder hubs, which help farmers produce and distribute livestock fodder more efficiently. This not only boosts farm productivity but also protects the environment by reducing the pressure on natural resources.
An important point to remember is that the Central Highlands are home to some of Kenya’s most critical water towers, like Mt. Kenya and the Aberdare Forests. These areas are crucial for providing water to nearby regions, including Nairobi,Isiolo. By working to restore and protect these highland areas, the CHEF project is ensuring that the water flow remains steady, benefiting both farmers and communities downstream.
The CHEF program is paving the way for a sustainable future in Kenya’s Central Highlands. By promoting regenerative farming practices, improving water management, strengthening local organizations, and fostering innovation, the program is helping communities protect their environment while improving their livelihoods. With organizations like CETRAD leading the charge on key issues like rangeland health and water use efficiency, the project is making a lasting impact on the region. The work being done today is not just about farming—it's about securing a better future for the people and the land they depend on.