5 sustainable projects in Kenya

In the Basic Law Kenya's the right to a clean environment is already enshrined. However, ensuring it is far from perfect. We present 5 sustainable projects in Kenya that show the country's commitment to a more sustainable future.

By 2030, Kenya should be a country with a clean, safe and sustainable environment, as Vision 2030 states. This change is urgently needed, because air pollution, climate change, waste and deforestation threaten the livelihoods of the local population.

Plastic bags are a thing of the past

In Kenya, plastic bags have long been history! Kenyans have long known that there are better alternatives. That's why a law was passed back in 2017 that strictly bans the use, manufacture and even import of single-use plastic bags. Similar measures already existed in 2007 and 2013, but the current regulations are by far the strictest, with fines of up to 40,000 $. Supermarkets alone will thus save up to 100 million bags a year.

Sugar cane is the new wood

A great way to generate more sustainable energy is provided by sugar cane. This crop is produced in large quantities in Kenya and has the disadvantage that decomposition releases carbon dioxide. However, leftovers can be turned into briquettes, allowing the biomass to provide energy. Compared to wood, these briquettes are easier to transport and produce more energy per unit. This alternative creates jobs and provides a more sustainable way to generate energy. 

Drinking tea becomes more sustainable

Tea production is one of the most important economic sectors in Kenya. Traditionally, wood is burned for the production. To make this process more sustainable and reduce deforestation, alternatives are needed. This is where the use of the aforementioned sugar cane briquettes comes in handy. These briquettes are already being used in tea factories organized by the Kenya Tea Development Agency. In this way, energy can be generated more efficiently and deforestation can be prevented.

Increase crop yields

A start-up in Kenya is using modern technology to improve crop yields for Kenya's farmers. Satellites enable them to make accurate crop forecasts and provide reliable weather data to cope with the effects of climate change. In addition, drone imagery provides information on the distribution of moisture in the soil, which can help prevent dry spots. The start-up's activities have already led to major successes, such as 40 % higher crop yields for farmers. 

Solar panels instead of fertilizer

Solar panels for energy generation is nothing new for Kenya, but using them for agriculture is. Solar panels can make double use of the sun in Kenya, as a research project in Kajiado, Kenya, has discovered.

The use of solar panels on fields showed improved agricultural production at these sites. The technology is called agrivoltaics and allows farmers to use solar energy more efficiently: once for cultivation and once for electricity generation. To do this, solar panels are placed three meters above the ground to still give farmers enough room to work. The researchers have noticed that some plants grow a third larger with this technique than they would otherwise, with the same amount of water and fertilizer. The project is very promising for farmers and the people of Africa.

Sustainable travel

These sustainable projects are great first steps towards the future, but many more efforts are needed. Tourism represents a great lever in sustainability. That's why we at TripLegend are committed, unforgettable adventures that support the local economy and minimize the environmental footprint.

Kenya offers many beautiful beaches, Landscapes and numerous wild animalswhich should be protected and preserved at all costs. 

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