Agriculture Secretary James Wanjohi emphasized that smallholder farmers could significantly boost their incomes by integrating modern technology into their operations. Speaking at the lead-up to the Africa International Agricultural Expo 2026, Wanjohi highlighted the importance of cooperatives and producer associations in enabling farmers to collectively acquire and share equipment, thereby reducing individual financial burdens. He stressed that successful technology adoption requires complementary services such as extension support, technical assistance, and access to reliable markets. 'Technology must also come with earning potential; it should provide farmers with additional income,' Wanjohi stated, underscoring the need for solutions that align with farmers' economic goals.
The expo, set to feature advancements in harvesting, processing, irrigation, and post-harvest handling, will also offer farmers opportunities to explore financing through institutions like the Agricultural Finance Corporation (AFC). Flacko Wang, Director of Market Development at Hunan Hongxing International Exhibition Limited, noted that Chinese companies will display equipment tailored to Kenya’s agricultural conditions, including small tractors and specialized tools. These innovations, he said, could enhance productivity and facilitate value addition, allowing farmers to meet international market standards. Additionally, the event will highlight artificial intelligence (AI) applications in farm planning, information access, and operational management, with Wang noting that AI can address routine agricultural queries without requiring farmers to seek external advice.
Tito Mutai, CEO of Agri-Africa Exhibition, called for stronger partnerships between international technology providers and Kenyan manufacturers to promote local assembly and technology transfer. 'Kenya has local fabricators and assemblies; the goal should be to eventually manufacture our own equipment,' he said, reflecting a push for self-sufficiency. Last year’s expo showcased over 10,000 agricultural machines, signaling growing interest in technological solutions. The 2026 event will bring together farmers, technology firms, equipment manufacturers, financial institutions, and government agencies to advance the agricultural value chain and support Kenya’s broader efforts to move beyond raw commodity exports.
The government’s focus on value addition, packaging, and branding is part of a broader strategy to help farmers access international markets, Wanjohi said. By leveraging technology and collaborative frameworks, the initiative aims to address challenges such as post-harvest losses and market inefficiencies. With the expo serving as a platform for innovation and investment, stakeholders hope to create sustainable pathways for Kenyan agriculture to thrive in a competitive global landscape.