A Garden That Sustains: How Women Are Driving Irrigation Farming Forward in Rare

First Published September 21, 2024

Jonathan explains the irrigation project's progress

When we first envisioned our irrigation project in Rare, we saw potential. Today, that vision is thriving—thanks to the incredible work of local women and the dedication of our team, including Jonathan Mativo, our program lead here in Kenya.

This project is more than just a vegetable farm. It’s a sustainable model that empowers women, feeds households, and funds itself.

What We're Growing

The farm spans two acres, cultivated year-round with spinach, kale, okra, local amaranths, and tomatoes. The women from the surrounding community tend to the crops daily. When their households need vegetables, they simply pick what they need. What remains is sold—mostly to local schools—and the income is split: part goes to the women, and part is reinvested to keep the farm running.

“We’re using two irrigation techniques,” Jonathan explains. “Some beds are flooded directly, while others are raised beds we’re experimenting with. It helps us manage water and soil quality efficiently.”

Water comes from a nearby stream, making this a reliable, all-season source of nourishment and income.

A New Economic Model

Initially, we had to invest in land preparation, leveling, and infrastructure. But now? The project is self-sustaining. It no longer requires additional outside investment, and it generates steady income for the women who tend it.

“This is one of the most exciting things,” says Jonathan. “The women are able to earn a living from it, and we always have enough surplus to sustain the operations.”

Selling Smart: The School Connection

While local markets couldn’t absorb all the produce, a new opportunity emerged—supplying fresh vegetables to schools. Schools provide a stable, year-round demand, and we’ve aligned our planting calendar with the academic one. Crops planted between September and November, for instance, are timed for when schools are in full session.

This guarantees that produce doesn’t go to waste and that income continues to flow, even during months when local demand dips.

Farming Without Seasons

One of the most revolutionary aspects of this project is that it breaks free from the traditional farming calendar. Thanks to irrigation, the garden runs continuously. Some crops are ready to harvest while others are just being planted. It's a living, breathing system of growth and renewal—not bound by rainy or dry seasons.

“We don’t think in seasons anymore,” Jonathan adds. “We think in continuity. There’s always something to grow, harvest, and share.”

The Impact

This project has become a hub of economic opportunity, learning, and sustainability for the women of Rare. It’s not just about growing food—it’s about growing dignity, stability, and hope.

And it's working.

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