Kenya and Israel Strengthen Agricultural Ties with New Investments

Kenya and Israel have been fostering closer ties in the agricultural sector, marked by the recent activities and investments from Israeli companies. The increasing interest from Israel in Kenya’s agriculture is evident, as both countries seek to harness technology and innovation to boost productivity and global competitiveness.

A significant event in this growing partnership was attended by senior officials from both governments. Among those present were Mr. Abdishakur Hussein, Acting Deputy Director-General of Foreign Service and Head of the Middle East Directorate at Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, and Ambassador Michael Lotem, Israel’s Ambassador to Kenya. Their presence underscored the importance of this collaboration, reflecting a shared commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity through modern technology.

In Kenya, agriculture remains the backbone of the economy, contributing over 33 percent of the gross domestic product. The sector employs 40 percent of the population and accounts for 65 percent of the country’s export earnings. This highlights the critical role agriculture plays in Kenya’s economy and the potential for further growth through strategic partnerships.

Kenya’s government has recognized the need to integrate advanced technologies to improve agricultural output. Speaking on the matter, a top Kenyan official emphasized the country’s ambition to acquire cutting-edge technologies from Israel. These innovations aim to reduce production costs, thereby making Kenyan agricultural products more competitive in the global market. The ultimate goal is for Kenya to transition from being a net importer of agricultural goods to a leading exporter, leveraging modern technology to achieve this transformation.

The interest of Israeli companies in Kenya’s agriculture sector has been steadily increasing, with several significant investments already made. Last year, Granot International Company, a major player in the global avocado industry, officially launched its operations in Kenya. Granot International is renowned for operating the largest avocado packing house in Israel and is responsible for producing one-third of the country’s avocado yield.

Granot’s entry into the Kenyan market is a testament to the growing cooperation between the two nations. The company has ambitious plans for its operations in Kenya, having already planted 55,000 avocado trees with a long-term goal of cultivating 300,000 trees. The farm, located in Ndabibi, Naivasha, in Nakuru County, spans 400 hectares and represents a significant investment in the region’s agricultural sector.

This investment is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the country’s export earnings. Moreover, the introduction of advanced farming techniques by Granot International is likely to serve as a model for other agricultural enterprises in the region, encouraging the adoption of modern practices that can enhance productivity and sustainability.

The partnership between Kenya and Israel is not just about technology transfer; it also involves knowledge sharing and capacity building. Israeli experts are expected to work closely with their Kenyan counterparts, offering training and support to ensure the successful implementation of new technologies. This collaboration aims to empower local farmers, enabling them to increase their yields and improve the quality of their produce.

Furthermore, the presence of Granot International in Kenya is likely to attract other Israeli companies to invest in the country’s agriculture sector. As Kenya continues to position itself as a hub for agricultural innovation, the involvement of international companies will play a crucial role in driving the sector’s growth. This aligns with the Kenyan government’s broader vision of transforming the agriculture sector into a more dynamic and competitive industry, capable of meeting both domestic and global demand.

In conclusion, the strengthening of agricultural ties between Kenya and Israel marks a new chapter in their bilateral relations. Through investments like those of Granot International, Kenya is poised to benefit from advanced agricultural technologies that will not only boost production but also enhance the country’s standing in the global agricultural market. As both nations continue to collaborate, the future looks promising for Kenya’s agriculture sector, with the potential for increased exports, improved livelihoods, and sustained economic growth.