This archive report was first published on 9 November 2019.
Kenya's strategic location along the equator makes it an ideal place for agricultural production throughout the year. The country's diverse ecosystems support a wide range of farm produce, making it a significant contributor to the global market.
However, the sector is grappling with several challenges, including the scarcity of high-potential land, which has decreased due to urbanization, infrastructure development, and population growth. Water for irrigation is also scarce and costly, and climate change remains a significant threat.
According to the Government of Kenya and USAid, an estimated two million people needed food aid in July this year, particularly in arid and semi-arid counties. Despite these challenges, there have been significant gains in some sectors, with new markets and opportunities opening up for Kenya.
Research institutions, regulators, investors, policymakers, and development organizations must work together to ensure robust and sustainable agricultural production. The government has taken the lead by focusing on technology to boost food production, increasing the use of inputs, and reducing post-harvest losses.
Kenyatta University is at the forefront of addressing some of these challenges. The university is leading a global collaborative initiative to manage striga (witchweed), which has devastated maize, sorghum, and millet in western Kenya and other regions. Researchers at the university have also developed high-yielding, drought-resistant sorghum varieties and explored alternative ways to reduce the use of chemical pesticides on foods.
The university is also organizing the Biennial Research and Innovation Conference 2019, which will provide a platform for stakeholders to share their ideas, insights, experiences, and research findings. SMEs, manufacturers, and innovators will also have an opportunity to showcase their products.
Dr. Maina Mwangi, a senior lecturer at Kenyatta University, emphasizes the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing the challenges facing Kenya's agriculture sector.
