Significant Soil Degradation Threatens Food Security in Kenya

The Soil Atlas Health Report 2025 reveals that only 20 percent of Kenya’s soil is suitable for food production, with significant degradation due to erosion and poor farming practices. Over 40 percent of East Africa’s soils are degraded, affecting food security and leading to increased reliance on imports. An estimated 2.8 million people in Kenya may face acute food insecurity by mid-2026, with vulnerable populations at the highest risk.

A recent report has indicated that a mere 20 percent of Kenya’s soil is conducive to food production, raising significant concerns for the country’s agricultural future. The Soil Atlas Health Report 2025 reveals alarming rates of soil degradation, with Kenya losing approximately 26 tons of soil per hectare annually due to water-induced erosion, and in some regions, losses can exceed 90 tons.

The health of soil is critically linked to food security and is also essential in combating climate change, as soils can store more carbon than both vegetation and the atmosphere combined. The study highlights that East Africa, and particularly Kenya, faces dire consequences, as over 40 percent of its soils are degraded, jeopardizing agricultural foundations and resilience in the region.

Various human activities and natural processes contribute to the worsening soil situation. Unsustainable farming practices, overgrazing, deforestation, and erratic weather patterns play pivotal roles in soil quality depletion. In particular, overgrazing in dry regions removes protective vegetation, rendering the soil susceptible to erosion and compaction, which diminishes its water retention capacity.

A significant concern highlighted in the report is salinization, particularly prevalent in arid and semi-arid areas where poor irrigation methods are employed. The report states that approximately 40 percent of irrigated land in Kenya suffers from salinity, complicating agricultural production. This salinity arises from the evaporation of low-quality water, which leaves harmful salt residues as it evaporates.

Nutrient depletion is another critical issue affecting soil health, with over 85 percent of soils identified as nutrient-deficient. The report attributes this depletion to continuous farming without management practices to replenish soil nutrients, coupled with rising soil acidity. Degraded soils are estimated to decrease agricultural output by 30 percent, thereby increasing the reliance on food imports.

Furthermore, a report from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) highlighted the impending food insecurity crisis, predicting that 2.8 million individuals may face acute food shortages between April and June 2026. This projection indicates an increase of 650,000 people requiring urgent aid compared to the current 2.15 million, particularly affecting vulnerable populations such as children and breastfeeding women.

In summary, the Soil Atlas Health Report 2025 reveals that 80 percent of Kenya’s soil is unfit for agriculture, primarily due to degradation from various human and environmental factors. Serious implications for food security arise from nutrient depletion and salinization, leading to decreased agricultural output and potential food insecurity for millions. Urgent measures are needed to address these challenges and improve soil health across the region.

Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke