Innovative Social Approaches to Sustainable Agricultural Development and the Role of Women in Food Security in Kenya: The Case of Women-Led Climate-Smart Initiatives in Nairobi's Cosmopolitan Areas

The global pursuit of sustainable development underscores the urgent need for innovative solutions that address both food security and environmental sustainability. While conventional agricultural practices have historically boosted production, they often neglect the long-term environmental consequences, resulting in challenges such as soil degradation, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss. There is an emerging consensus on the importance of social innovation in agricultural transformation that promote environmental and economic sustainability in order to address these concerns. These strategies are largely shaped through collaborative efforts involving farmers, local communities, policymakers, and researchers, and are characterized by their inclusiveness and the integration of indigenous knowledge.

In Kenya, agriculture is a significant pillar of the economy, employing over 75% of the rural population and contributing about 33% to the national GDP. Although women are key contributors to agriculture, serving as both primary producers and caregivers within households, . they face significant barriers to adopting innovative agricultural practices and Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) exemplifies the transformative potential of innovation by enhancing productivity, improving climate resilience, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

This study seeks to explore how innovative social strategies can drive sustainable agricultural development in Kenya, with a specific focus on the role of women. Through descriptive approaches, we will investigate women's lived experiences, their understanding of social innovation, and how they have applied these strategies in their agricultural practices. Additionally, we will examine the barriers that prevent women from integrating social innovations and explore how women-led innovations could provide solutions to food insecurity. The findings will contribute to global sustainability discussions while addressing the specific challenges faced by women in Kenya's agricultural sector, empowering them as key agents of change in the pursuit of sustainable food systems.