By MKT Correspondent
Zetech University has called on Kenyan farmers to adopt modern technology, innovation, and value addition to boost productivity and resilience in the agricultural sector. This message came during a high-profile Farmers Symposium and Roundtable held last Friday at the university’s Technology Park in Mang’u, Kiambu County.
The event brought together hundreds of farmers, agribusiness experts, researchers, industry partners, and policymakers for a day of exhibitions, dialogue, and practical demonstrations aimed at strengthening agricultural value chains.
Speaking during the symposium, Vice Chancellor Prof. Njenga Munene underscored the central role of agriculture in Kenya’s economy.
He noted that the sector contributed between 21.35 and 22.5 per cent of the country’s GDP in 2024 and remains the backbone of rural livelihoods.
“Agriculture is a cornerstone of Kenya’s economic stability and social development,” he said, adding, “This symposium responds directly to the need for modernization, value addition, and the building of resilience across our agricultural value chains. Zetech University is committed to equipping farmers with the skills, technology, and networks they require to thrive in an evolving landscape.”
Throughout the day, participants explored emerging trends in animal production, shared success stories, and interacted with technology innovators driving growth in agribusiness.
Farmers also benefited from mentorship sessions, hands-on demonstrations, and networking opportunities with industry partners.
The symposium received strong support from major players in the sector, including Kenchic, KNCCI, Pembe Feeds, Silverdale Farms, Neema Feeds, Osho Chemical Industries, TruVet, Techwin Limited, Atlantis Solar Systems, and Pine Agrivit.
Their contributions, organisers said, helped to enrich discussions and expose farmers to practical solutions.
Dr. Beauttah Mwangi, the Programme Leader and Director of the Technology Park, said the event demonstrated the university’s vision for the facility as a hub of innovation and community impact.
“The Technology Park is designed as an innovation and training hub, and this symposium showcased exactly what we intend it to be; a space where ideas, expertise, and solutions meet real community needs,” he said.
“We are proud to convene stakeholders committed to advancing animal farming through science, practical skills, and continuous learning.”
Industry partners echoed the sentiment. A representative from Pembe Feeds noted the importance of strong collaborations between learning institutions and the private sector.
“Working closely with institutions like Zetech University ensures that farmers access practical knowledge and modern insights,” the representative said.
“Events like this help secure a more productive and resilient agricultural sector.”
Farmers attending the symposium lauded the university’s extensive community outreach programmes. One participant said the mentorship and farm-based training offered by Zetech University had significantly improved productivity on his farm. “Being part of this symposium allowed me to learn more, meet other farmers, and discover new technologies,” he said. “This kind of support is invaluable.”
The symposium builds on a year-long series of specialised agricultural trainings offered through the University’s Corporate Training Academy.
These include courses in animal nutrition, poultry, pig, and dairy farming; programmes that have increasingly positioned the institution as a leader in community empowerment and CSR-driven agricultural development.
Zetech University said it remains committed to creating more platforms that strengthen Kenya’s agricultural sector while uplifting farming communities nationwide.
Felix Njenga 
Aoma Keziah