By John Toris
At the Agri-Business Summit 2025, government and private sector captains urged a new and powerful agricultural sector in Kenya.
PS Ministry of Trade, Industry and Investment Dr. Juma Mukhwana encouraged youth to imagine the potential agribusiness presents, noting it’s an incredibly powerful driver of investment and economic activity.
One of the major themes was the necessity of transitioning from rain-based to irrigation-based farming.
As climate change renders rainfall uncertain, panelists advocated for the government’s plan to build water pans in every county so that farmers can farm all year round and minimize drought risks.
Competition also topped the agenda. The Kenya Competition Authority (CAK) reaffirmed its enthusiasm for protecting MSMEs and smallholder farmers.
Director General David Kemei presented existing projects, such as a seeds markets study of anti-competitive behavior. He also highlighted among success stories the refund of KES 2.5 billion to small suppliers by crashed Tuskys Supermarket, and initiatives like the Retail Trade Code of Practice to enable timely payments.
Farm input innovation also took center stage. Elgon Kenya showcased its customized Blended Fertilizers, which are specific for particular crops like coffee, maize, and potatoes.
Dr. Bimal Kantaria clarified that customization reduces wastage and maximizes productivity because it caters to the precise nutritional need of each plant.
The summit departed with a thundering consensus: Kenya’s agricultural revolution rests on a powerful trinity of fair access to markets, climate-resilient irrigation, and innovatory, affordable inputs.
Through this collaboration, the Kenyan agricultural future can be more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous.
