KenReshet

Soil is not just an inert factory that puts food on our tables, it is alive and breathes, just like we do. It is by far the largest carbon reservoir on earth, but also one of the largest sources of carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide and methane, the three most potent greenhouse gases (GHGs). As the farmers around the world work tirelessly to feed a growing population, many remain unaware of the risks that agricultural intensification poses to the climate, as well as underground water resources that we all depend on.

Chris Gathaiya’s research focuses on how different farming systems influence GHG emissions and the potential of soils to store carbon. With the right practices, every farmer with a piece of arable land can turn their soil into a natural carbon sink. Unlike costly technologies such as direct air capture, soil carbon sequestration is accessible, affordable, and practical, reducing emissions while continuing to sustain communities. This means that agriculture is not only part of the problem, but also a powerful part of the solution.

Across Africa, we face a major challenge: the lack of reliable data on how our farms contribute to or mitigate global warming. Without this information, our role in the global climate story remains underestimated. Yet Kenya’s young population and its place in the global food chain, present a unique opportunity to close this data gap. 

With his expertise in agricultural systems and GHG quantification, he aims to amplify small holder farmers’ footprint in combating climate change. By adopting evidence-based farming practices, we can balance productivity with climate resilience, which can guide communities and policymakers toward climate-smart solutions.

At KenReshet, he brings not just science, but a vision; a vision to turn agriculture into a driver of resilience and hope for Kenya and Africa at large.