Women in Elang’ata Wuas Turn to Agriculture to Combat Climate Change Impacts

A quiet revolution is taking root in Elang’ata Wuas, Kajiado West, Kajiado County, where women are rising to meet the challenges of climate change. In a region historically reliant on pastoralism, now increasingly unsustainable due to recurrent droughts, women are embracing agriculture as a resilient and empowering alternative. This shift is being driven by support from ActionAid Kenya through the Iloodokilani Women’s Network.

At the center of this transformation is a model farm in Isinya Omelok village. Designed as both a demonstration and training hub, the farm is a living example of how climate-smart agriculture can strengthen food security, generate income, and elevate women’s roles in their communities. In addition to serving as a learning center, the farm also produces vegetables for household consumption and sale, providing both nutrition and a source of income.

A key innovation driving the initiative is a reliable water supply sourced from a nearby government-owned main pipeline, supplemented by harvested rainwater stored in elevated tanks for irrigation. With support from ActionAid Kenya, this system ensures consistent, year-round crop cultivation, even during dry seasons, empowering women to take greater control of their livelihoods.

“We used to rely solely on livestock, but the droughts wiped them out, and restocking became a big challenge,” says Sikampe, a member of the women’s group. “Now, we grow vegetables and keep bees. We have food at home and even some to sell. This farm is transforming our lives.”

In addition to infrastructure, women have received agricultural training, seeds, and tools, enabling them to replicate techniques learned at the farm in their own homes. Many have since established flourishing kitchen gardens using rainwater harvesting methods, transforming once-barren plots into productive green spaces.

“Before this, we didn’t think farming could work here,” shares Naisola, who now tends a thriving home garden. “My children are eating better, and I don’t have to buy vegetables. We’re saving money and improving our health.”

Guiding the initiative are a committed team from ActionAid Kenya, including Christine Naiputa, Samson Kutata, and Catherine Mbiti. Speaking at the model farm, Naiputa emphasized that the program’s impact reaches far beyond agriculture.

“These women have shown that with the right support and training, they can adapt and lead their communities toward sustainable futures,” she said. “They’re becoming champions of climate resilience. This is more than income, it’s about leadership, self-reliance, and protecting their children’s future.

The ripple effects are already visible. Inspired by the success in Omelok, women and youth from neighboring areas are visiting the model farm to learn and adopt similar practices. The long-term goal: to replicate this model across Elang’ata Wuas.

Through innovation, resilience, and solidarity, the women of Elang’ata Wuas are not just growing crops; they’re cultivating change.

Author: Ezra Kiriago ,Communications Coordinator ActionAid Kenya.