Kenya has taken center stage in addressing the challenges faced by smallholder farmers as it hosts the African Development Bank (AfDB) and Pan African Farmers Organization (PAFO) Conference on scaling financial solutions for small-scale agriculture.
The event, held in Nairobi, brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, development partners, and industry leaders, to explore innovative ways of empowering smallholder farmers across Africa.
In his keynote address, Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Mutahi Kagwe, emphasized the urgent need for practical and inclusive financial measures to support smallholder farmers.
He highlighted their critical role in Africa’s agricultural sector, noting that they produce 70% of the continent’s food and form the backbone of its economy.
“Agriculture remains the backbone of our continent, providing livelihoods for over 60% of Africa’s population and significantly contributing to GDP,” Kagwe stated. “Yet, small-scale farmers—who feed our nations—struggle to access essential financial resources.”
The CS called for a recalibration of agricultural financing models to prioritize investments in areas such as soil analysis, fertilizer access, cold chain facilities, and agribusiness industrialization.
He urged stakeholders to act decisively to transform agriculture into a thriving industry capable of driving economic growth and ensuring food security.
“If we prioritize innovative, practical financing measures, we will turn agriculture into a powerful engine of economic growth. Let us commit to ensuring no farmers are left behind,” Kagwe remarked.
The conference also featured remarks from AfDB Vice President for Agriculture, Human and Social Development, Ms. Beth Dunford, who reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to its “Feed Africa” strategy.
This initiative aims to transform agriculture across the continent by addressing barriers such as limited access to credit and technology for smallholder farmers.
The event comes at a time when Africa is grappling with food insecurity exacerbated by climate change and geopolitical challenges.
