Are you dreaming of transforming your land into a thriving, self-sustaining ecosystem? Whether you have a sprawling homestead, communal land, or a modest backyard, the principles of permaculture can help you create a landscape that works in harmony with nature. We’re excited to introduce our NEW two day speacilized course, "Water, Trees, and Soil Basics for Land Improvement” at Mlango Farm this October, a perfect starting point for anyone eager to enhance their land sustainably. This course is being facilitated by Harvesting for Good East Africa.
When: October 23rd & 24th
Where: Mlango Farm, Ngecha
Time: 9:30am - 4pm
Cost: KES 12,000 total for the two days inclusive of meals
What is Permaculture, and Why Should You Care?
Permaculture is more than just a gardening technique; it’s a philosophy that promotes working with nature rather than against it. By understanding and applying the principles of permaculture, you can design a landscape that conserves water, enriches soil, and supports a diverse range of plant and animal life, all while reducing your environmental footprint. Our course focuses on three foundational elements of permaculture: water, trees, and soil. Mastering these basics will set you on the path to creating a resilient and productive landscape.
Why should we delve in to Water, Soil, and Land improvement?
Water, soil, and land improvement are the foundation of permaculture. In permaculture, understanding how to enhance soil health, manage water resources, and optimize land use is crucial for creating sustainable, resilient ecosystems. These elements work together to boost productivity, support diverse plant and animal life, and reduce the need for external inputs. By focusing on water, soil, and land improvement, you ensure that your permaculture/ landscape designs are not only sustainable but also regenerative, benefiting both the environment and your community.
Course Highlights: What You’ll Learn
1. Water Management: Harnessing Nature’s Most Precious Resource
Water is the lifeblood of any garden or farm. In this course, you’ll learn how to manage water effectively on your land by:
Observing and Interacting with your land; understanding land form and tapping in to that energy.
Understanding the natural water cycle and its impact on your landscape.
Designing water systems that capture, store, and distribute rainwater efficiently.
Implementing practical techniques like swales and basic keyline design to optimize water flow and prevent erosion.
2. Trees: The Guardians of Your Ecosystem
Trees play a vital role in any permaculture design, providing shade, shelter, and a habitat for wildlife. This session will teach you how to:
Choose the right trees for your climate and soil conditions.
Plant and care for trees in a way that maximizes their benefits to your land.
Integrate trees into your water and soil management strategies to create a balanced, thriving ecosystem.
3. Soil Health: The Foundation of Fertile Land
Healthy soil is the cornerstone of any successful permaculture/ landscape project. In this session, you’ll discover how to:
Assess and improve the quality of your soil using natural methods.
Build and maintain soil fertility through composting, mulching, and crop rotation.
Advancing your understanding of a creating a successful compost heap.
Protect your soil from erosion and degradation to ensure long-term productivity using key elements, trees, and vegetation.
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is designed for anyone with a passion for sustainable living and land stewardship. Whether you’re a novice gardener, a small-scale farmer, or simply someone who wants to improve their backyard or a communal land then this course will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to make a real difference.
Why Choose Our Course?
Expert Instruction: Learn from experienced permaculture practitioners who have successfully applied these techniques in diverse environments.
Practical Focus: Our course is packed with hands-on tips and real world examples that you can apply immediately to your land, using Mlango Farm as a real life case study!
Community Support: Join a vibrant community of like-minded individuals who share your commitment to sustainability and land improvement.
Get Started Today!
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to unlock the potential of your land. Enroll in "Water, Trees, and Soil Basics for Land Improvement” today, and take the first step towards creating a sustainable, thriving landscape!
Ready to dive in? Sign up now and start your permaculture journey with us!
Get to know your facilitators:
Sheena Shah-Reschke
Sheena, with over a decade of experience in the field and as the former Education Manager and Executive Director at the Permaculture Research Institute of Kenya, is now the Founder of Harvesting for Good East Africa sine 2019. A consultancy aimed at fostering sustainable, long-term growth in small-scale projects through facilitation, implementation, and strategic partnerships.
In 2023, Harvesting for Good EA partnered with Mlango Farm to develop and facilitate introductory courses designed to ignite interest in permaculture. These courses aim to inspire individuals to start their own edible gardens or farms, regardless of size. With over eight courses conducted and 150 participants trained, the demand and impact of these programs are clear!
James Kagwe
James Kagwe is the visionary CEO and Founder of Waste to Best Environmental Action, a pioneering organization in Naivasha, Kenya, leading urban waste management and circular economy solutions for 18 years. He also founded the Gathengera Practical Permaculture Center, which has been transforming landscapes through permaculture and agroecology for 6 years. A seasoned expert in vermicomposting, thermophilic composting, and urban garden design, Kagwe has made a significant impact across Kenya and East Africa. He now shares his expertise as a part-time facilitator with the HFG EA Team.
John Saam Mugambo
John Saam, a proud Masai tribesman hailing from Nanyuki County, embarked on his Permaculture Certification journey at the Laikipia Permaculture Centre (LPC) in 2016. He secured a scholarship opportunity facilitated by Sheena's collaboration with PRI Kenya, enabling him to delve into permaculture, master composting, integrated pest management, earthworks, and organic farming practices. During this time, he actively supported the Laikipia women's groups, offering his expertise in nursery propagation and management.
John will be assisting practically with this course and is very knowledgeable on nursery management and propagation techniques.
Get to know more about the site where the course will take place!
Just a short 45-minute drive from Nairobi, in the picturesque village of Ngecha, lies Mlango Farm, a serene organic vegetable farm that invites nature enthusiasts to connect with the environment. It’s an ideal escape to relax and savor the peaceful rhythms of rural life. At Mlango Farm, you’ll experience the warmth of African hospitality combined with the cozy Dutch concept of “gezelligheid.”
What was once neglected family land has, since 2007, been transformed into a flourishing oasis of fruit trees and abundant crops. Today, Mlango Farm stands as a testament to the power of nurturing the land and enjoying the benefits of healthy, organic produce.
Comments