1. Skip to content
  2. Skip to main menu
  3. Skip to more DW sites

In Kenya, an experiment aims to turn sand into fertile soil

06:50

This browser does not support the video element.

Wacera Ngunjiri | Julia Mielke
June 20, 2026

Extreme heat, salinity, little water and no soil — yet crops are sprouting. Forget fertilizers: This Kenyan project uses algae and biology to revive barren land.

On a remote Kenyan island where the ground is sandy and freshwater is scarce, an innovative experiment is reshaping how food can be grown. Soil microbiologist Su Kahumbu works to transform barren ground into fertile soil using microorganisms, organic waste and moisture-saving techniques. Early results show trees and beans taking root. Similar methods are also helping communities tackle polluted soils in cities. 

Skip next section DW's Top Story

DW's Top Story

Skip next section More stories from DW

More stories from DW