71 new kitchen gardens provide nutrition to families
Watermelon
Newly started garden
Pumpkin
Good nutrition is important for everyone…
but is especially so in the management of HIV. Because people living with HIV have compromised immune systems, balanced diets are essential in maintaining and improving health, and helping their bodies absorb HIV medications. However, difficult economic and agricultural circumstances in Isiolo, Kenya, often make this a challenge.
This is why, in addition to providing nutrition education to the groups, Kiunga also encourages group members to establish kitchen gardens. The concept of low-cost, organic home gardens are introduced in the support groups, and members are provided with training and seeds to start their own kitchen gardens.
Recently, agricultural extension officers from the Government of Kenya have accompanied Kiunga Project Officer Mbae Leon on home visits to individual support group members. During these visits, the agricultural experts can train the new farmers on soil, water, pest and disease management to maximize the yield of their gardens.
To date, 71 kitchen gardens have been established and 20 are ready with vegetables for consumption!
These kitchen gardens are already improving the nutritional needs of families, and providing a means of generating additional income for their households, since they can sell excess vegetables in the market. We are thrilled that so many families have adopted this practice, which provides nutritious food, income security and sustainable livelihoods.