Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Friday emphasized the critical role of agriculture in driving Kenya’s industrialization agenda during the official opening of the Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) Central Kenya National Show.
Gachagua, who represented President William Ruto at the event, highlighted the need for small-scale farmers to adopt climate resilience innovations in order to sustain production and support the manufacturing sector.
“Delivering on the industrialization and manufacturing strands of our plan requires a solid and vibrant agriculture sector. Small-scale holders, who are the foundation and pillars of our economy, need to integrate transformative innovations for sustained production,” Gachagua said.
He added that the government is implementing radical reforms in key subsectors such as coffee, tea, macadamia, avocado, and dairy to increase farmer earnings.
The ASK Show, held in Nyeri, showcased a range of agricultural technologies and innovations aimed at enhancing crop and livestock productivity.
The Deputy President stressed the importance of such events in providing farmers with access to affordable innovations and capacity building opportunities through interactions with technical experts and peers.
“As we continue to implement subsector reforms, we remain committed to supporting shows and other platforms that reignite the agriculture sector, ensuring farmers earn what is commensurate with their sweat,” Gachagua noted.
The event was attended by key leaders, including Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Dr. Andrew Karanja, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, Senators Wahome Wamatinga (Nyeri) and John Methu (Nyandarua), and several Members of Parliament.
The ASK leadership, represented by National Chairperson Annabell Kiriinya and CEO Batram Muthoka, was also present.
The ASK Show provided a platform for farmers to explore new technologies aimed at increasing efficiency and output, reinforcing the government’s push for a reformed, innovative, and prosperous agriculture sector.
