Paper short abstract:

The paper maintains that in the pre-colonial period, communities in Kenya relied on diverse indigenous knowledge systems of food production and nutrition. The paper recommends that, if indigenous knowledge systems on food can be invigorated, it can help in achieving the elusive food security.

Paper long abstract:

Environmental and climate change impacts food security in most parts of the world especially Africa. In Kenya, for example, over 80 percent of the population relies on rainfed agriculture. This means that the effects of climate change, such as unpredictable rainfall patterns, temperature increases, and prolonged drought negatively impacts food security. Currently, Kenya is facing severe hunger due to prolonged drought conditions, especially in arid and semi-arid areas. This paper argues that the revitalisation of indigenous knowledge is vital in promoting food sovereignty and food security. Part of the primary data for this paper is drawn from Twitter, a digital space configured as the field site network that incorporates physical, virtual, and imagined spaces. Secondary sources of data are based on published reports and articles. The paper's contribution is in line with Sustainable Development Goal 2(SDGs), which seeks to achieve Zero Hunger, achieve food security, improved nutrition, and promotion of sustainable agriculture. It maintains that in the pre-colonial period, Kenyans relied on diverse indigenous knowledge systems of food production and nutrition. These indigenous knowledge systems have declined due to colonialism, modernity, and commodification of nature and food systems. The paper recommends that, if indigenous knowledge systems on food can be invigorated, it can help in achieving the elusive food security.

Keywords: Food security, climate change, indigenous knowledge, food sovereignty.