Advocacy & Policy Work
From farm-level action to national policy, driving systemic change for sustainable food systems across Kenya
Sylvia's advocacy extends well beyond her farm. She works at the intersection of grassroots farmer empowerment and policy transformation, championing sustainable agriculture at county and national levels.
Her work demonstrates that real change happens when local action meets systemic advocacy.
Advocacy Pillars
Four foundational areas driving transformative change in Kenya's food systems
Chemical-Free Food for Families
Sylvia's journey began with a heartfelt goal: to feed her children vegetables free from synthetic pesticides and harmful chemicals. Organic produce supports food safety and public health—a small change on the plate that makes a big difference in people's lives.
Making Organic Food Accessible
Through Sylvia's Basket, barriers that make organic food inaccessible are being removed. What started as a home garden has grown into a thriving farm business reaching urban consumers, especially mothers seeking healthy, chemical-free food.
Empowering Small-Scale Farmers
Sylvia has trained more than 1,000 farmers, both in Kenya and internationally, in organic and agro-ecological farming practices. Her work enables women and small-scale farmers to gain skills, confidence, and resources to produce food sustainably.
Restoring Soil and Biodiversity
Through agroforestry, composting, biological pest control, crop rotation, and diversification, Sylvia's farming approach builds soil organic matter, improves soil structure, increases water retention, and enhances biodiversity.
Agro-Ecological Principles
Practices that build soil health, enhance biodiversity, and create climate-resilient farms
Agroforestry
Composting and organic manure use
Biological (non-synthetic) pest control
Crop rotation and diversification
Natural pest and disease management
Participation
Policy & Institutional Advocacy
Leading transformative change from grassroots to government
Kiambu County
Policy Steering Committee
Member since 2022, shaping county agroecology policy framework
CIDP Integration
Integrating agro-ecological practices into county planning and extension services
Farmer Coalition
Working with farmer groups and civil society organizations
Pesticide Reform
Coalition Building (2022-2023)
United 100+ farmers and environmental advocates for safer food systems
Major Victory: 2023 Pesticide Ban
Successfully advocated for Kenya's ban on several hazardous pesticides
Ongoing Advocacy
Continued push for chemical reduction and food safety standards
Fair Value Chains
Market Access Advocacy
Championing fair pricing and market opportunities for organic farmers
Viable Livelihoods
Making organic farming economically sustainable, not just a niche alternative
Policy Integration
Ensuring value chain development in county and national frameworks
Key Outcomes
Tangible results from grassroots action to policy change
Healthier Food for Consumers
Chemical-free produce that promotes family health and wellbeing
Economic Opportunity
Farmer empowerment through fair markets and sustainable livelihoods
Improved Soil Health
Enhanced soil fertility and structure for long-term productivity
Biodiversity & Balance
Ecological balance through diverse, resilient farming systems
Climate Mitigation
Long-term sustainability and climate resilience
Co-creation of Knowledge
Collaborative learning and knowledge sharing between farmers and communities