Terracing is a method of farming and soil conservation on hills and sloped lands. It was traditionally used by the Incas and is widely practised around the world today. It involves the building of platforms, and forming step-like structures along a slope. The main goal of bench terraces is to periodically interrupt the slope of the terrain with flat sections; this helps to decrease the speed of water runoff,  significantly reducing soil erosion and surface runoff. By slowing down water speed, this intervention stops the washing away of topsoil containing important nutrients and promotes better water infiltration and soil moisture. The flat benches of the terraces create more effective and productive areas to farm on steep terrain.

There are two main types of terracing techniques: graded terracing and level terracing. With graded terracing, the slope can vary along the length of the terrace to direct water in the desired direction; this is especially useful for less permeable land. With level terracing, the terraces follow a contour line and do not vary in slope along this line, this ensures that water is more evenly distributed along the terrace. Stone or wooden walls are often used to hold terraces in place, although a simple earth wall without supporting material can be used with slopes and terraces on the smaller side. This intervention is similar to Fanya Juu and Fanya Chini which are specific types of terraces.

Terracing offers several ecological and socioeconomic benefits. Ecologically, it prevents soil erosion by slowing water flow, allowing it to infiltrate the soil and retain valuable topsoil, which is essential for agriculture. Terracing also manages water more effectively by evenly distributing it across levels, conserving water, reducing irrigation needs, and promoting nutrient cycling. It creates diverse habitats for various plant and animal species, enhancing biodiversity. Additionally, terracing stabilizes slopes, reducing the risk of landslides by minimizing soil pressure and movement, especially in regions with wet seasons. Socioeconomically, terracing increases land productivity on slopes, allowing for larger crop beds and easier use of machinery, thus boosting agricultural efficiency.