Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development Mutahi Kagwe has urged Kenyan farmers to embrace technology and climate-smart agriculture as climate risks intensify, warning that droughts and floods linked to climate variability cost the nation 2.8% of its GDP annually. Speaking at the opening of the 125th Nairobi International Trade Fair on September 28, 2026, Kagwe emphasized the need for farmers to leverage digital tools, scientific soil management, and innovative practices to combat erratic weather, rising production costs, and declining soil fertility. The seven-day fair, organized by the Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK), ran from September 28 to October 4 under the theme "Promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Economic Growth." It featured over 500 exhibitors showcasing artificial intelligence-powered solutions, drones, irrigation systems, climate-resilient crops, and livestock technologies. ASK Chief Executive Officer Batram Muthoka highlighted the event’s role in connecting farmers with innovations to address climate challenges, stating, "We are picking initiatives that help the farmer and the entrepreneur mitigate the challenges that come with climate change." Kagwe cited the Kenya Agricultural and Digital Information Centre (KADEC), a new initiative at the fair, as a central hub for agricultural data and technology. He noted that 8.9 million farmers had been registered under the Kenya Integrated Agricultural Management Information System and the Animal Identification and Traceability System (ANITRAC), enabling targeted services like vaccination and extension support. The government is also advancing the National Digital Soil Works Project, which coordinates KALRO laboratories to improve soil testing and management, as 63% of Kenya’s soils are acidic. "The future of Kenya’s agriculture will not be determined by the government alone," Kagwe stated, stressing the importance of partnerships between farmers, researchers, industry, and investors. He called for technologies such as automated soil testing, geospatial mapping, and e-extension services to enhance access to information and resources. The fair also highlighted livestock innovations, including improved breeding, animal health products, and feed solutions, as farmers seek to maintain production during droughts and feed shortages. Kagwe emphasized the need to reduce post-harvest losses and expand agro-processing to ensure agricultural output is preserved, marketed, and converted into value. He urged exhibitors, farmers, and investors to form partnerships to scale technologies that boost productivity and incomes. The event also featured demonstrations of machinery, including mini tractors, and showcased climate-resilient crop varieties and value-addition equipment. The fair’s focus on climate-smart agriculture aligns with the government’s efforts to strengthen digital infrastructure for farmer identification, insurance, and finance. Kagwe reiterated the urgency of anticipating and adapting to climate shocks, stating, "Our objective is not merely to respond to climate shocks, but to enable farmers to anticipate, absorb, adapt to, and recover from climate shocks." He called for expanded livestock insurance programs and year-round access to affordable feeds to address recent milk supply constraints caused by dry conditions. The Nairobi International Trade Fair, held at Jamhuri Park, serves as a platform for stakeholders to explore solutions to agricultural challenges. With climate change increasingly threatening Kenya’s food security and economy, Kagwe’s message underscores the critical role of technology and collaboration in securing the sector’s future.
Kenya's Agriculture CS Urges Farmers to Adopt Tech Amid Climate Challenges
Nyakundi Report Editorial Team
climate change, agriculture, technology, Kenya, Nairobi International Trade Fair
Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe calls on Kenyan farmers to embrace technology and climate-smart practices as climate risks escalate, with droughts and floods costing 2.8% of the nation's GDP annually.
https://www.nation.africa/kenya-agriculture-cs-urges-farmers-to-adopt-tech-amid-climate-challenges
Kenya's Agriculture CS Urges Farmers to Adopt Tech Amid Climate Challenges
Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe calls on Kenyan farmers to embrace technology and climate-smart practices as climate risks escalate, with droughts and floods costing 2.8% of the nation's GDP annually.
Kenya's Agriculture CS Urges Farmers to Adopt Tech Amid Climate Challenges
Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe calls on Kenyan farmers to embrace technology and climate-smart practices as climate risks escalate, with droughts and floods costing 2.8% of the nation's GDP annually.