Organic agriculture and agri-food system democracy: an institutional perspective from Kenya

Abstract

The discontent with the undemocratic agricultural food system inspired the emergence of many alternative agri-food systems, including organic agriculture. This study analysed how organic agriculture promotes agri-food system democracy concerning traditional knowledge integration, community and women participation, market, and policy integration. The study found that organic agriculture conversion increases traditional knowledge integration, community and women participation, and market integration. Although, it promotes policy integration by contributing to organic standards and policy development, the policy has remained in draft form for too long. The study implies supporting organic agriculture can promote agri-food system democracy, but its potential is compromised by the lack of an approved policy. Thus, stakeholders should increase their advocacy efforts for speedy organic policy approval and broader policy scope, including compensating organic producers for supplying public goods.