This archive report was first published on 9 January 2020.
As we step into the new decade, the agriculture sector in Kenya is on the cusp of a revolution. The sector, which remains the country's biggest employer, has been grappling with various challenges, including high production costs, disjointed markets, and inadequate policy support from the government.
However, the introduction of new technologies and innovations is set to redefine farming in Kenya. The sector has witnessed an increase in smart agriculture, with young people at the forefront of the technological renaissance. Intelligent greenhouses, market access apps, and livestock tracking technologies are some of the innovations that are set to grow yields, incomes, and the economy.
Deepened partnerships between the public and private sectors are also expected to transform the agriculture sector. The government's Big Four Agenda, which aims to ensure 100% food and nutritional security for every Kenyan by 2022, has attracted numerous enterprises that are throwing their weight behind the initiative.
The recent approval by the Cabinet for commercial farming of Bt cotton is another significant development that heralds new opportunities for farmers. The crop is less susceptible to pests and diseases, and its commercialization is expected to increase earnings for farmers.
The revival of the New Kenya Planters Cooperative Union and the operationalization of the Coffee Cherry Advance Revolving Fund are also expected to boost the coffee sub-sector, which has been facing challenges in recent years.
According to the Agricultural Sector Transformation and Growth Strategy 2019-2029, plans are underway to unlock about 500,000 acres to farming while putting more under sustainable agriculture. The strategy also aims to connect one million farmers, pastoralists, and fishermen to SMEs that will offer them farm inputs, irrigation systems, and post-harvest services.
Full implementation of these proposals will be music to the ears of smallholder farmers who have largely failed to benefit from government services as middlemen and brokers exploit them.
As we look forward to the new decade, it is clear that the agriculture sector in Kenya is poised for a transformation. With the introduction of new technologies, innovations, and government initiatives, the sector is expected to grow and become a major driver of the economy.
The writer is the communications Manager at Elgon Kenya.
