The Kenyan government remains committed to enhancing food production and ensuring agricultural sustainability through strategic initiatives, Principal Secretary for Agriculture, Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh, has affirmed.
Speaking in a speech delivered on his behalf by the Development Secretary Administration in the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, Rashid Khator, Dr. Ronoh highlighted the progress made through key programs, particularly the subsidized fertilizer initiative and the national farmer database. These efforts aim to support smallholder farmers by identifying and addressing challenges in the agricultural sector.
Dr. Ronoh emphasized that the Kampala Declaration 2025 sets ambitious goals, including reducing post-harvest losses by 50 percent and tripling intra-African trade in agri-food products by 2035. These targets align with Kenya’s broader vision of achieving food security and economic stability through sustainable agricultural practices.
The PS made these remarks at the graduation ceremony of the Centre for African Leaders in Agriculture (CALA) Cohort 3 delegates of the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) leadership program. The event, held in Nairobi, celebrated professionals from the public, private, and civil society sectors who completed AGRA’s rigorous 16-month leadership program focused on transforming Africa’s food systems.
Dr. Ronoh urged the newly graduated leaders to bridge the gap between policy and practice, empowering farmers, youth, and women in agribusiness. He emphasized the importance of networking, collaboration, and collective action in fostering agricultural transformation across the continent.
He stated that the journey undertaken by the graduates had been one of learning, transformation, and leadership growth. He expressed confidence that they would champion climate-smart agriculture, drive technology adoption, advocate for policy reforms, and expand agribusiness.
He also commended AGRA for equipping African leaders with the skills necessary to address food security challenges. Since its inception, the CALA program has trained 25 Kenyan leaders, including officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development.
Dr. Ronoh acknowledged that food insecurity remains a pressing challenge, with over 61 million people in East Africa affected due to climate change, economic instability, and conflicts. He stressed the need for climate adaptation strategies, mechanization, and youth involvement in agribusiness to build a resilient food system.
As the graduates embark on their next phase, AGRA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting leadership in agriculture, emphasizing its role in driving economic growth, food security, and sustainability across Africa.
During the event, speakers underscored the urgency of climate-smart agriculture, agribusiness expansion, and policy-driven reforms to combat food insecurity. The Kenyan government’s continued investment in agricultural initiatives signals a strong commitment to a food-secure and economically stable future.
