Why We Exist

Rusinga Island has lost over 60% of its biodiversity due to extreme annual drought and land degradation. Alworawa's nursery exists to reverse that cycle directly, propagating indigenous and drought-resistant species that have been tested and verified to survive in this environment. Every seedling we produce and follow up on is a specific act of restoration: roots holding soil against heavy rains, a canopy shading the ground, and habitat returning.

Rainfall on Rusinga Island is becoming increasingly unpredictable, with dry spells arriving at different times and lasting longer. Alworawa Farm demonstrates that food can still be grown under these conditions using practical, climate-smart methods. These include drought-resistant crops, composting to improve soil health, and protective planting patterns that conserve moisture. Our goal is a reliable supply of food grown locally, close to and by the households that depend on it.

A single farm, however well run, can only restore so much land. The real impact comes when practical techniques such as grafting, propagation, composting, water-wise planting and natural pest management reach more people. At Alworawa, we train community members, welcome farm visits, field studies and conversations with neighbours as opportunities to share what works. We demonstrate these methods on our own farm, where people can see, learn and try them for themselves. The goal is to help more households grow food, care for their land and build a greener, more productive Rusinga.

Alworawa is built to sustain itself through itself and expand its services beyond Rusinga Island in the long run. We sell seedlings and farm produce directly at prices suited to the households and institutions we serve. Our aim is to build a farm that can support its own operations while helping the community grow food, restore the land and improve livelihoods. It is a long-term commitment to Rusinga, built on practical work, lasting relationships and results that matter beyond a single good season.