National Agricultural Soil Management Policy 2020

Abstract

Agriculture is important in Kenya’s national economy as it contributes 27.3% of the Gross Domestic Product and the survival of the Kenyan population is thus directly dependent almost entirely on soils to derive goods and services (KENBS-ESR, 2019). Despite this critical role, the sector has been experiencing several challenges, among them, increasing soil erosion and land degradation; inefficient use of fertilizers; inadequate and inappropriate soil and water conservation measures; high cost of inputs and productive resources such as fertilizer; inadequate knowledge and skills in agricultural soil management; and equally important lack of a comprehensive policy and legislation that focuses on restoration and maintenance of agricultural soils. The importance of soil’s ecosystems to sustain human well-being was globally demonstrated during the 68th UN General Assembly when the United Nations declared 2015 as the International Year of Soils. The Constitution of Kenya, 2010 assures Kenyans of the right to be free from hunger and to have adequate food of acceptable quality (Article 43(c). Article 71 of the constitution requires legislation on agreements relating to exploitation of natural resources. Under article 260, natural resources mean the physical non- human factors and components whether renewable or non-renewable including soil among others. The Agricultural Sector Transformation and Growth Strategy 2019-2029 (ASTGS) has also emphasized on adequate food of acceptable quality for the Kenyan people in its Flagship Projects. It is therefore important that a National Agricultural Soil Management Policy be put in place if the soils are to be restored and conserved for the present and future generations.