Our journey began with a simple act – planting. Recognizing the dire need for a natural shield against erosion agents, the Farm strategically introduced Dracaena Stuckyi, a native plant renowned for its erosion-blocking capabilities. This strategic choice played a crucial role in impeding the destructive forces of wind and water. Furthermore, implementing contour terraces was a thoughtful step to mitigate the strength and force of water, ensuring that the soil remained steadfast against erosion. 

For ground cover, we opted for Vetiver grass, which can have roots more than 2M deep. This grass enables the soil to remain intact.

Additionally, the ground cover would And Vetiver grass, with its 2-meter-deep roots, tenaciously held the soil together enabling the soil to remain intact even when exposed to agents of erosion such as wind and water. It reduced flow velocity and increased soil stability. The Vetiver grass added aesthetic value- a verdant cloak to the once-parched earth. It was an unexpected yet welcome bonus. We then introduced the Mucuna Bean. In a landscape where water was a scarce commodity, the Farm strategically chose hardy crops—Vetiver grass and Mucuna beans. These became the Farm’s “miracle crops,” adapting to the harsh climatic conditions and growing resiliently despite limited water resources. Mucuna beans, in particular, contributed to soil fertility by fixing nitrogen, laying the foundation for sustainable agriculture. 

Additionally, over 1500 trees, chosen for their adaptability and ecological prowess, were meticulously planted. 

Our journey was not without its challenges. Water, the elixir of life, was scarce. Ambokili Farm ingeniously utilised the then-available 10-litre tank but soon realised the growing water demands of their ambitious projects. Our initial 10-litre tank proved woefully inadequate especially with heavy feeders like trees. Watering our trees, each demanding 5 litres a day and growing ever taller, outstripped our reserves. We partnered with one of the neighbours and pumped 100 litres per day from their reservoir to irrigate our plants. This soon transformed into a financial sinkhole. It was not only financially burdensome but also unsustainable. At a cost exceeding KES 100,000 per week, it diverted precious financial resources from other crucial projects like our Black Soldier Fly initiative and animal shelters.  

The permanent solution is sinking a borehole—an expensive proposition. Therefore, as an interim measure, we’ve well was dug, now serving as the main water source. A pivotal moment in the farm’s water management strategy was the implementation of Fanya Juu and Fanya Chini channel terracing, redirecting water for multi-purpose use. A 450,000-liter reservoir, strategically placed at the highest point of the farm to harness gravity, became a game-changer, drastically reducing operational costs by eliminating the need for water pumping. Despite these remarkable strides, we still need a borehole, the size of Ambokili Farm demands a sustainable water source for long-term prosperity. 

Today, Ambokili Farm is a tapestry woven from resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment. From the skeletal landscape we inherited, we have conjured a vibrant tapestry of life. A testament to the transformative power of sustainable agricultural practices. From combating erosion with indigenous flora to innovative water management strategies, the farm has not only revitalised the land but also pioneered a blueprint for sustainable farming in arid regions. The success of Vetiver grass and Mucuna beans, resilient crops thriving against all odds, serves as an inspiration for sustainable agriculture enthusiasts.  Now, our once barren fields now yield a bounty of organic produce, nurtured by the fertile soil we have meticulously coaxed back to life. 

But our story is far from over. We’re here to preserve biodiversity and inspire change in Kimana, Kenya, Africa, and the world. Investing in Ambokili Farm is not merely a financial venture; it’s a commitment to environmental sustainability, environmental restoration and conservation, biodiversity, and community development. It’s a commitment to transformation of arid landscapes into thriving ecosystems. As we forge ahead, your support becomes the cornerstone for a future where Ambokili Farm stands as a beacon of hope, proving that even the most challenging terrains can be revived with dedication, innovation, and a profound respect for nature. Join us as we rewrite the narrative of lands, one seed, one drop, one hopeful step at a time.