Proparco Allocates Sh141 Million to Empower Kenyan Smallholder Farmers

Proparco has partnered with Equity Group, providing Sh141 million to implement the Climate Resilient Agri-Food Systems project aimed at supporting smallholder farmers in Kenya. This initiative will focus on promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture to enhance productivity and resilience while providing training, financial access, and knowledge sharing. The partnership underscores agriculture’s key role in Kenya’s economy.

Proparco has entered into an agreement with Equity Group, granting Sh141,260,000 for the implementation of the “Climate Resilient Agri-Food Systems” (CRAFS) project. This initiative aims to support smallholder farmers in Kenya in adopting sustainable agricultural practices. The signing ceremony took place in Nairobi, attended by notable figures, including the French Ambassador to Kenya, Arnaud Suquet.

Agriculture plays a significant role in Kenya’s economy, contributing around 30% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 45% of the nation’s export earnings. It is vital for rural livelihoods, sustaining 75% of rural communities and employing over 70% of the rural workforce, including a significant proportion of women and youth.

The Equity Group Foundation (EGF), through the CRAFS project, aims to promote Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) among smallholder farmers. This approach is designed to enhance productivity, bolster resilience against climate challenges, and minimize agricultural emissions through sustainable methods. The project will include training, financial access, and knowledge sharing to aid small-scale producers.

Targeting approximately 15,000 farmers engaged in livestock or crop value chains annually, the project will also focus on educating farmers about energy use, sustainable production, and waste management practices. A dedicated field team will ensure effective implementation on the ground, with a focus on empowering farmers and micro-businesses.

Ambassador Suquet underscored agriculture’s significance in Kenya, highlighting that this collaboration between France’s Proparco and EGF will bolster SMEs and entrepreneurship in critical sectors. He stated that the project exemplifies a steadfast partnership to help local businesses thrive.

Proparco’s Regional Director for East Africa reaffirmed the commitment to support Kenyan agricultural actors. He noted that this partnership with Equity Group enables tangible change, reinforcing the importance of supporting local farmers and innovators.

Dr. James Mwangi, the CEO of Equity Group, spoke of the partnership as a milestone, focusing on the benefits to farmers, families, and communities. He emphasized the importance of climate-smart agriculture in enhancing productivity and resilience, noting Equity’s commitment to aiding smallholder farmers in overcoming agricultural challenges.

In conclusion, the partnership between Proparco and Equity Group marks a significant advancement for smallholder farmers in Kenya. Through the Climate Resilient Agri-Food Systems project, the collaboration aims to enhance agricultural productivity, sustainability, and resilience against climate impacts. The commitment demonstrated by both organizations highlights the critical role agriculture plays in the country’s economy and rural livelihoods, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable future.

Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke