By Aoma Keziah,
Nairobi, August 14, 2024 — The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) officially launched its 2023-2027 Strategic Plan in Nairobi, an initiative that aims to drive Kenya’s agricultural sector to new heights over the next five years. The event was graced by Dr. Andrew Karanja, the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, who delivered a keynote speech outlining the government’s vision for a more sustainable and resilient agricultural future.
In his address, Dr. Karanja emphasized the critical role that the strategic plan will play in addressing key challenges facing the sector, including climate change, market access, and food security. He noted that the plan aligns with the government’s broader agenda of transforming agriculture into a high-value, inclusive, and sustainable sector that can significantly contribute to the country’s economic growth.
“The AFA Strategic Plan is a blueprint for revitalizing our agricultural sector, ensuring that it is resilient to climate shocks, and capable of meeting the food demands of our growing population.We are committed to working closely with all stakeholders to implement this plan effectively, driving innovation, enhancing productivity, and ensuring that our farmers can compete in global markets.” Stated Dr. Karanja
The strategic plan focuses on several key areas, including enhancing value chains for major crops, improving research and development, promoting sustainable farming practices, and strengthening regulatory frameworks to ensure the quality and safety of agricultural products. It also seeks to empower smallholder farmers by providing them with better access to financing, training, and technology.
CS Karanja furher highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in achieving the goals set out in the strategic plan. He called on industry players, development partners, and other stakeholders to collaborate with the government in implementing the plan, noting that collective efforts are essential to transforming the sector.
The launch also featured presentations on the key pillars of the strategic plan, discussions on the challenges facing the agricultural sector, and the role of various stakeholders in its implementation. Participants expressed optimism that the strategic plan would lead to significant improvements in the agricultural landscape, benefiting both small-scale and commercial farmers.
As AFA embarks on the implementation of the their Strategic Plan, there is a renewed sense of hope and determination within the agricultural community. The plan is expected to play a crucial role in driving Kenya’s agricultural transformation, ensuring food security, and contributing to the country’s economic growth.
Mt Kenya Times 
Elizabeth Angira