The iCow Soil Advocacy programme is pursuing the change of farming practices by equipping agronomists and trainers in how to restore soil to lift smallholders’ yields. As a reporter with a background in agriculture, I enrolled in the programme to gain firsthand insight—and it turned out to be transformative.
I first learned about the programme through a colleague who shared an online advert. Intrigued by its focus on soil health, I applied and was accepted. Over five weeks, the programme provided an in-depth guide to agricultural practices that improve soil in interactive online sessions led by certified lab tech Su Kahumbu and moderated by James Biwot of Green Dreams Tech.
The course began with a deep dive into soil science, tracing its formation and biological makeup. Unlike the conventional agriculture I was trained in—which often relies on chemical inputs—the programme revealed the living ecosystem within the soil. I discovered how microorganisms, fungi, bacteria, and even nematodes interact to create healthy soil that supports resilient plants.
One highlight of the programme was learning about the Soil Food Web, which shows how soil is linked to plant health. Videos featuring global experts like Dr. Elaine Ingham and Dr. Christine Jones illustrated how healthy soils boost yields and also combat the impacts of climate change by storing carbon. These lessons hit close to home when I see so many real-life examples of Kenyan farms struggling with soil degradation caused by poor farming practices.
A practical session on composting was another game-changer. I learned how to create compost that restores microbial activity and breathes new life into depleted soils. The hands-on nature of the course made these techniques easy to understand and apply. For instance, I conducted a soil integrity test and saw firsthand how making sure soil is not disturbed improves its structure, helping plants to absorb nutrients and withstand diseases naturally.
The programme was also an opportunity to connect with participants from different countries, creating a rich exchange of ideas and experiences. These interactions deepened my understanding of how restoring soils can be adapted for different types of farming in our region.
What struck me most was the realisation that healthy soil leads to healthy food—a simple but profound truth. By adopting soil-boosting practices, farmers need fewer chemical inputs, increase their yields, and contribute to a healthier planet.
As the programme concluded, I earned an iCow Soil Advocate Certificate—a testament to the knowledge and skills I gained. More importantly, I now feel equipped to guide farmers toward practices that protect the soil, enhance productivity, and produce nutrient-rich food.
For anyone passionate about boosting their agriculture through a focus on soil health, I highly recommend joining the iCow Soil Advocacy programme. The next cohort begins in January 2025, and you can reach out to James Biwot at james@greendreams.co.ke or visit icow.co.ke for more details. This is more than a course—it’s a step toward transforming agriculture for the better.