The El-Koony Center combines scientific research with community development to develop solutions that benefit the entire ecosystem. From human-wildlife conflict mitigation to ethnobotany and bioprospecting, our scientific research projects include tangible outcomes that can be disseminated in training sessions.
Over 75% of the working population in Mount Elgon relies on farming as a primary source of income, and despite high soil fertility, food insecurity is a prevalent issue, as the region relies primarily on monoculture farming. Although monoculture farming can lead to higher outputs, these practices can have substantial negative effects on the environment, leading to soil degradation, eutrophication of water sources, and increased greenhouse gas emissions.
In 2018, we initiated our flagship project: Climate Resilient Agriculture as a biodiversity conservation strategy and livelihood enhancement mechanism, as a way to provide climate-resilient farming solutions that also monetarily benefit small-scale farmers.
We are currently expanding this project into Kiptogot, Kimothon and Suam on the slopes of Mt Elgon and exploring ways to create opportunities for interested youth to develop innovative, tech-focused agricultural solutions for the Mount Elgon region.
Join us in preserving the Mount Elgon ecosystem and the livelihoods of those who live within this region. Your contribution will enable us to further develop our scientific research and community development programs.
