Kenya Organic Agriculture Network (KOAN)

The Kenya Organic Agriculture Network (KOAN) is a national non-governmental organization established in 2005 to advance organic and sustainable agriculture in Kenya. As a membership-based organization, KOAN unites farmers, cooperatives, processors, traders, researchers, and consumers to strengthen the organic sector while promoting ecological farming practices. The network’s mission is to lead the transition toward sustainable, profitable, and climate-resilient agriculture that supports both rural livelihoods and environmental conservation.

KOAN provides comprehensive support to its members through training in organic production, soil fertility management, integrated pest control, and value chain development. It also oversees the Kilimohai Mark, ensuring products meet the East Africa Organic Products Standards (EAOPS), and promotes Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS) to help local farmers certify products through community-based trust systems. By connecting farmers to local and international markets, KOAN empowers smallholders to increase incomes and build sustainable agribusinesses.

The network implements projects such as Agroecology for Climate Resilience (A4CR) and the Kenya Agroecology Assessment Tool (KAAT) to improve climate adaptation, soil health, and productivity. KOAN also supports organic farmers markets, facilitating direct sales between producers and consumers. Additionally, it engages in policy advocacy, working with national and county governments to develop pro-organic agriculture policies, including the National Agroecology Strategy for Food Systems Transformation (NAS-FST).

Through technical guidance, market facilitation, research, and advocacy, the Kenya Organic Agriculture Network strengthens the capacity of farmers to adopt organic practices successfully, improve food security, and foster resilient rural communities. By professionalizing the organic sector, KOAN ensures that sustainable farming remains profitable, environmentally responsible, and socially inclusive across Kenya.