Researchers, farmers, conservationists and community representatives have launched a new two-year initiative aimed at protecting the rich but often overlooked biodiversity living beneath the soil, which scientists say is essential for sustainable food production and climate resilience.
The project, Sustainable Management of Soil Biodiversity in Agro-Ecosystems in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Sacred Forests Landscape of Coastal Kenya, will run from 2026 to 2028 with funding from the JRS Biodiversity Foundation.
The project is being spearheaded by Dr Joyce Jeffwa of Pwani University in partnership with the National Museums of Kenya and the University of Nairobi.
The initiative was officially launched during an inception workshop held at Pwani University o Monday, where researchers and local stakeholders gathered to chart the way forward for the conservation of soil biodiversity within agrobiodiversity systems.
Opening the workshop, Prof Bernard Fulanda, Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Research and Extension at Pwani University, said sustainable management of natural resources must begin with understanding and protecting the biodiversity hidden beneath the ground.
He noted that while much attention has been given to forests, wildlife and marine ecosystems, soil biodiversity remains one of the least understood yet most critical components of healthy ecosystems and agricultural productivity.
“Soil is a living ecosystem that supports food production, regulates water movement, stores carbon and sustains countless organisms that make agriculture possible,” he said, urging researchers to work closely with farming communities to translate scientific findings into practical solutions.
Professor Esther Kioko from the National Museums of Kenya said the initiative seeks to bridge knowledge gaps on soil biodiversity while empowering farmers to adopt practices that conserve beneficial organisms essential for crop production.
She explained that soil contains complex communities of organisms ranging from earthworms, termites and insects to microscopic fungi, bacteria, nematodes and mites, all of which play vital roles in nutrient cycling, improving soil structure, suppressing pests and diseases and enhancing crop health.
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“These organisms are the unseen workforce that keeps our soils productive,” she said. “Unfortunately, intensive farming practices, excessive use of chemicals and land degradation are disrupting these ecosystems, leading to the loss of important species and the services they provide.”
Dr Nancy Ngowa from Pwani University noted that indigenous vegetables present an opportunity to restore and protect soil biodiversity because they are naturally adapted to local climatic conditions, require fewer external inputs and support more diverse farming systems.
Dr Judith Muwawa from Pwani University said the project will conduct field surveys across different farming landscapes to document key soil biodiversity species and understand how integrating indigenous vegetables into farming systems influences soil health.
She said researchers will focus on major groups of soil organisms including macrofauna such as termites, earthworms and arthropods; mesofauna including nematodes, collembola and mites; as well as beneficial and parasitic fungi and bacteria that support ecosystem functions.
Beyond scientific research, the project also seeks to build the capacity of farmers, extension officers and local communities on sustainable soil management practices that improve agricultural productivity while conserving biodiversity.
Project lead Dr. Joyce Jefwa said the research will also establish platforms for sharing biodiversity data, promote integration of agrobiodiversity practices into farming systems and advocate for stronger recognition of soil biodiversity in county and national agricultural policies.
She warned that degradation of soil biodiversity threatens ecosystem services such as nutrient recycling, water retention, carbon sequestration and natural pest regulation, making farming systems more vulnerable to droughts and extreme weather.
Participants at the workshop observed that healthy soils are becoming increasingly important as farmers grapple with climate change, declining soil fertility and rising food insecurity.
The project is expected to generate evidence that will guide sustainable agricultural practices within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the sacred forest landscapes of Coastal Kenya while contributing to national efforts to conserve biodiversity and improve food security.
Researchers expressed optimism that combining scientific research with indigenous knowledge and community participation will help protect soil biodiversity for future generations while supporting resilient agricultural systems capable of withstanding the impacts of climate change.
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