This archive report was first published on 16 May 2020.
As Kenya grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, the agriculture sector has faced unprecedented disruptions, with restrictions on production and supply chains threatening food security and livelihoods for millions.
However, the government has taken steps to support the sector, classifying food dealers, distributors, wholesalers, and transporters of farm produce as critical and essential service providers, exempting them from the nationwide curfew.
The Kenya Climate Innovation Centre (KCIC) has responded with the AgriBiz programme, a Sh5.1 billion five-year initiative to support women and youth in the agriculture sector.
Financed by the European Union and Danida, the programme aims to address issues that block women and youth from venturing into agribusiness, including restricted access to factors of production and negative perceptions of agribusiness initiatives.
AgriBiz will provide training and support to 2,400 women and youth-led agribusinesses, creating 17,000 job opportunities and leveraging Sh17.6 billion in loans from local financial institutions.
The programme will be implemented jointly with eight county governments, setting up incubation hubs in Kilifi, Machakos, Kiambu, Meru, Isiolo, Kisii, Bungoma, and Uasin Gishu.
As Kenyans weather the coronavirus crisis, the AgriBiz programme offers a glimmer of hope, providing employment opportunities to those who need them most – women and the youth.
Published on May 16, 2020
