Tindiret Farmers Turn to Climate-Smart Agriculture to Cope with Changing Weather

Farmers in Tindiret Sub County are adopting climate-smart agricultural practices to cope with unpredictable weather patterns that have disrupted traditional farming cycles in the region.

Once known for reliable rainfall and fertile soils, Tindiret now experiences longer dry spells and erratic heavy rains, threatening the livelihoods of hundreds of smallholder farmers.

According to Sub County Agricultural Officer (SCAO) Esther Chepkemoi, the effects of climate change have forced farmers to rethink their farming methods.

“Our farmers can no longer rely on predictable rain seasons,” she said. “They are now using practices such as intercropping, agroforestry, and drought-tolerant crops to sustain production.”

Farmers who once grew only maize are now diversifying. Sorghum, millet, beans, cassava, and sweet potatoes have become popular choices due to their ability to withstand dry conditions. Indigenous vegetables such as amaranth and spider plant are also making a comeback, improving both nutrition and income.

Peter Kiprotich, a farmer from Kapsisywa, said he has scaled down maize cultivation in favour of more resilient crops.

“I now grow sorghum and sweet potatoes, and I intercrop with beans to make better use of the soil,” he said. “Even with the late rains last season, I harvested enough for my family and still sold some.”

In Chemamul, Sarah Jepchirchir is integrating trees into her two-acre farm as part of an agroforestry approach.
“I’ve planted Grevillea and Calliandra alongside maize and beans,” she said. “The trees help reduce erosion, provide shade, and the leaves feed my goats. I don’t depend entirely on rain anymore.”

Chepkemoi said her office, in collaboration with NGOs and agricultural extension officers, has trained over 300 farmers in Kapkong, Kaptebengwet, and Songoliet. The training focuses on drought-tolerant maize varieties, kitchen gardens, and simple irrigation technologies like drip systems and vertical farming.

She added that rainwater harvesting through tanks and shallow pans has become increasingly useful during dry periods.

“These small changes are helping farmers remain productive even under tough conditions,” she noted.
Despite the progress, challenges remain. Many farmers still lack access to reliable climate information, certified seeds, and affordable financing.

Chepkemoi said continued support from the county government and development partners is crucial to expand these gains and strengthen climate resilience across the sub county.