Kenyan farmers urged to adopt modern technologies and innovative practices

Kenyan farmers have been urged to adopt modern technologies, innovative practices, and value-addition strategies to strengthen the country’s agricultural value chains.

The call was made during a Farmers Symposium and Roundtable Session at Zetech University’s Technology Park. The forum brought together farmers, agribusiness experts, researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders for knowledge exchange, practical demonstrations, and discussions on improving productivity and sustainability.

Speaking at the event, Zetech University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Njenga Munene, highlighted the sector’s importance to the national economy, noting that agriculture contributed over 21% of Kenya’s GDP in 2024 and remains the main livelihood source for more than 70% of rural households.

“As agriculture evolves, farmers require the skills, technology, and networks to keep up,” Prof. Munene said, emphasizing the need for collaboration between academia, industry, and the farming community.

Participants explored innovations in animal nutrition, best practices in farming, and technologies showcased by agribusiness companies. The symposium also included exhibitions, mentorship sessions, and panel discussions to encourage learning and collaboration.

The event attracted support from industry partners including Kenchic, KNCCI, Pembe Feeds, Silverdale Farms, Neema Feeds, Osho Chemical Industries, TruVet, Techwin Limited, Atlantis Solar Systems, and Pine Agrivit. Dr. Beauttah Mwangi, Director of the Technology Park, described the facility as an innovation hub connecting research with practical community solutions.

Farmers attending the symposium praised the initiatives, noting that trainings and mentorship sessions had helped improve farm productivity and introduced them to new technologies.

The university reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Kenya’s agricultural sector through innovation, training, and partnerships that enhance productivity and resilience.