One Health and agroecology: building resilient food systems
Approx. 5 min read
By Winnifred Mailu, Head of Thematic Support, and Betel Gezahegn, Content Executive at Ripple Effect
The 3rd National Agroecology Symposium, held in Nairobi on 22–23 July 2026, brought together government, farmers, researchers, civil society, development partners and the private sector to explore how agroecology can transform food systems through a One Health approach.
The symposium reinforced a simple but powerful message: the health of people, animals, plants and the environment is interconnected, and sustainable development depends on protecting all four. It concluded with a ten-point call to action focused on building more resilient and sustainable food systems.
Practical solutions for a changing climate
Farming communities across East Africa are facing growing pressure from climate change, biodiversity loss and food insecurity. Throughout the symposium, participants highlighted agroecology as a practical solution that restores ecosystems while improving livelihoods, nutrition and resilience.
Agroecology delivers benefits that extend beyond agricultural production to public health and environmental sustainability by promoting:
- Healthy soils
- Diversified farming systems
- Responsible livestock management
- Reduced reliance on synthetic inputs
Moving from policy to action on the ground
A key takeaway from the symposium was the need to move from policy discussions to implementation at scale.
While Kenya has made important progress through its National Agroecology Strategy, speakers highlighted that achieving lasting impact will require stronger partnerships among government, civil society, research institutions, the private sector and farming communities.
Equally important is ensuring that women and young people are recognised as key drivers of innovation and sustainable food systems.
What this means for Ripple Effect
For our team at Ripple Effect, the symposium reaffirmed the value of integrating the One Health approach across our programmes.
Our work demonstrates that improving soil health, strengthening livestock management, promoting sustainable natural resource use and supporting resilient livelihoods are mutually reinforcing investments that contribute to healthier communities and ecosystems.
Our Peer Farmer Trainer empowerment approach was also reinforced by having two of our Peer Farmer Trainers attend the symposium alongside Ripple Effect staff, where they gained new insights to share with fellow farmers in their communities.
Looking ahead
The symposium concluded with a shared commitment to accelerate the adoption of agroecological practices, strengthen collaboration and invest in solutions that deliver lasting benefits for people and the planet.
As organisations and partners move forward, the One Health approach provides a compelling framework for building inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems that leave no one behind.
How you can support our work
Thank you for supporting Ripple Effect's work with farming communities across Africa. If you'd like to help us continue building healthier, more resilient food systems, here's how you can get involved:
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