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CCAFS East African regional program selects six sites to test interventions that address risks related to climate change and variability. Featured here is the Lower Nyando

The iSPARK project has published two policy briefs examining climate resilience in Kenya’s agricultural sector. The briefs are based on field research carried out in Kenya by project teams from the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, facilitated the University of Leeds.

Policy pathways for advancing climate resilient irrigation in Kenya

This policy brief examines how climate change is increasing heat waves, droughts, and floods in sub-Saharan Africa and the implications for food and nutrition security. It assesses the potential role of irrigation expansion in Kenya as a climate adaptation strategy toward 2050. The brief finds that irrigation can help offset climate-related losses in food production, but it alone cannot ensure improved nutrition. Broader actions such as improving crop yields and promoting diverse, nutrient-rich crops are needed. It recommends prioritizing crops such as vegetables in irrigation development to meet nutritional needs and reduce reliance on food imports in the future.

Policy pathways for promoting climate resilient crop diversification in Kenya

This policy brief explores how crop diversification can strengthen food and nutrition security in Kenya under increasing climate extremes. It highlights that without agricultural expansion and adaptation, future food production may not meet the population’s calorie and nutrient needs. The findings show that diversification provides better nutrition outcomes than systems focused mainly on export crops. Climate-resilient and nutrient-rich crops such as sorghum and millet are identified as strong alternatives to maize. The brief also emphasizes addressing micronutrient deficiencies, promoting nutrient-rich foods and biofortification, and recognizing the role of livestock in diets, while considering livelihood.

Image credit: CGIAR Climate Programme.