A Vibrant Eco-Haven: Discovering Mlango Farm
When we said we were going to visit an organic farm run by a friend of Sabina Di Prima (INSSPIRE coordinator), I pictured the usual rows of fruits and vegetables. Fortunately, I left the flip-flops in my bag because this farm was nothing like what I had imagined. Mlango farm – located in the charming village of Ngecha, just 45-minute drive from Nairobi – is an organic vegetable farm, or rather a vibrant eco-haven, where hands-on learning is at the heart of every corner.
As we arrived, we were warmly greeted by Els Breet, the owner of the farm, along with her dedicated team. Els used to work at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam a long time ago, where she and Sabina, became close friends. It was hearthwarming to witness how long-standing friendships sustain, despite life’s many twists and turns.
Our tour guide, Mercy, a young woman with a degree in mass communication, shared her passion for agriculture. She dreams of owning her own agribusiness in the future. “Working at Mlango Farm allows me to strengthen my communication skills,” she explained, “but it also gives me the chance to learn from Els, whose knowledge and ability to sustain a farm of this scale is truly inspiring.”
When asked why she chose to work on a farm, Mercy replied, “Many young people in Kenya grow up around farms, so we don’t always see the value. We stick to the familiar—growing beans, potatoes, and maize. But once you realize the diversity and opportunities a farm like this offers, it becomes much more exciting.”
More Than Just Farming
Mlango Farm produces an incredible variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, from papayas and artichokes to Chinese cabbage and rosemary. However, the farm’s impact goes beyond agriculture. It’s also a hub for education and community engagement. Local primary school children visit to learn about sustainable practices through hands-on workshops, including recycling, eco-brick making, and even bread baking. These experiences offer valuable life lessons in sustainability and …….
In addition to nourishing the community with fresh produce, which is sold in Nairobi, the farm provides employment for around 80 workers, supporting livelihoods in the Ngecha community. Walking through the diverse fields, you could feel the love and care poured into every corner of the land.
INSSPIRE and Its Mission
What is the connection with INSSPIRE? The INSSPIRE project promotes experiential learning, advocates for sustainable practices, and engages local communities to tackle global challenges. Initiatives like Mlango Farm serve as powerful examples and inspiration for addressing complex issues in food systems and climate change. The farm is a model of how sustainability and community-building can go hand in hand, showcasing the potential of thoughtful, holistic approaches to create lasting impact. For me, the concept of Mlango Farm beautifully embodies the spirit of INSSPIRE, reminding us of the power of education, sustainability, and community working together.
