Ancient Farming Secrets Unearthed in Kenya

Sibiloi National Park

The Cradle of Humankind

Nairobi, Kenya (July 10, 2023)

A groundbreaking discovery in Kenya is rewriting the history of agriculture in East Africa. Archaeologists from Washington University in St. Louis and the University of Pittsburgh have unearthed a trove of ancient plant remains at the Kakapel Rockshelter, providing the earliest evidence of domesticated crops in the region.

The research, published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B, reveals a rich and diverse agricultural history that challenges previous assumptions about the region's farming practices.

A Glimpse into the Past

The Kakapel Rockshelter, located in the Lake Victoria region, has yielded a wealth of information about human occupation dating back thousands of years. The recent discovery of cowpea remnants, directly dated to 2,300 years ago, marks the earliest known arrival of a domesticated crop to East Africa.

"This finding sheds light on the dynamic interactions between local herders and incoming Bantu-speaking farmers," said Emmanuel Ndiema from the National Museums of Kenya. "It highlights the region's rich agricultural heritage and the adaptability of its people."

A Diverse Agricultural Landscape

The study also reveals the cultivation of other crops, including sorghum and finger millet, which were introduced to the region at different times. The discovery of field pea remains is particularly intriguing, as this crop was not previously known to have been cultivated in East Africa during the Iron Age.

Natalie Mueller, an assistant professor of archaeology at Washington University in St. Louis, emphasized the significance of these findings: "The past shows a rich history of diverse and flexible farming systems in the region, in opposition to modern stereotypes about Africa."

Unraveling the Mysteries of the Past

The researchers employed advanced techniques, such as flotation and radiocarbon dating, to analyze the plant remains. By studying these ancient crops, scientists can gain valuable insights into the region's climate, environment, and social dynamics.

As the excavation at Kakapel Rockshelter continues, archaeologists hope to uncover even more secrets about the history of agriculture in East Africa. This groundbreaking research has the potential to reshape our understanding of human history and the development of early civilizations.