Environmental & Social Sustainability.

 

With a firm commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility, Kisima has implemented a range of projects that not only benefit the farm but also uplift the surrounding communities. From education and health to water management and green energy, the farm’s sustainability efforts are making a significant impact.

Kisima Farm & Flowers collaborates with the Kisima Foundation on sustainable farming and community initiatives.

In September 2024, the Kenya Flower Council awarded Kisima the KFC Gold Standard certification for sustainability, along with accolades for organic waste management and community partnership. As Kenya's floriculture sector grows, there's increasing recognition of the need for sustainable practices. Kisima prioritizes environmental sustainability through water conservation, forest protection, and ecosystem nurturing.

The farm supports the Ngare Nything Water Resource Users Association (WRUA), conducting weekly inspections to manage water resources and mitigate conflicts during dry periods. Their “My Tank Project” aims to improve water harvesting and storage for the community. Lagoon 6, or Craig’s Dam, is a crucial water source that receives regular inspections by the Water Resources Authority (WRA) and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) to ensure sustainability. The use of naturally filtered spring water reduces chemical reliance and promotes healthier plant growth. Kisima’s efforts in water management, forest conservation, and environmental education exemplify their commitment to a sustainable future, highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental health and community well-being.

Kisima Farm has made significant financial contributions to the Mount Kenya and Ngare Ndare Forest Trusts to support essential ecosystem services. Their tree planting initiative, “Mti Wangu…Mstakabali Wetu” (“My Tree…Our Future”), involves donating 10,000 tree seedlings to local schools and institutions to promote reforestation and environmental awareness. Kisima’s commitment to empowering local farmers is exemplified by its agricultural extension program, which offers hands-on training and field days at its Demonstration Site. These efforts provide small-scale farmers with knowledge and best practices, enhancing productivity and sustainability.

In line with the Paris Agreement's emphasis on renewable energy, Kisima Farm has implemented innovative green energy initiatives, installing solar panels that supply 40–70% of its energy needs, significantly reducing its carbon footprint and achieving cost savings. The farm has also assessed its carbon footprint over the past three years. Design innovations, like gravity-fed lagoons, reduce the reliance on energy-intensive pumps, while strategically designed buildings maximize natural light, further lowering energy consumption. As a KFC Gold certified farm, Kisima operates two wetlands for wastewater purification and actively monitors greenhouse gas emissions. The farm is phasing out hazardous chemicals to enhance safety.

Kisima supports its employees through on-site organic food production and a free clinic, investing €19,718 in health-related initiatives since January 2024. Central to its mission is a biodiversity and conservation plan aimed at protecting natural resources, reflecting Kisima’s comprehensive commitment to sustainability. Kisima Farm has active running committees both relating to welfare, gender, health and safety that is usually by employee representatives and top management to ensure all issues relating our employees are addressed and employees can work in a friendly environment that is safe for their mental health and physical wellbeing.

Looking ahead, the farm is positioned to spearhead a transformative shift toward sustainability in the floriculture sector. By adopting eco-friendly technologies and practices, we aspire to minimize our environmental footprint and set a new benchmark for the industry. As a leader in sustainable floriculture, we are dedicated to forging strong partnerships and steering the sector towards a greener, more responsible future.