Proparco has allocated Sh141 million to support smallholder farmers in Kenya through the Climate Resilient Agri-Food Systems (CRAFS) project, implemented by the Equity Group Foundation. This initiative aims to boost sustainable agricultural practices, enhance climate resilience, and provide training and resources to farmers. Key stakeholders, including the French Ambassador and Equity Group CEO, emphasized the vital role of agriculture in Kenya’s economy and the significance of partnerships in fostering growth and sustainability.
Proparco and Equity Group have entered into a significant agreement, allocating Sh141,260,000 to the Equity Group Foundation (EGF). This funding is aimed at advancing the project titled “Climate Resilient Agri-Food Systems” (CRAFS), which seeks to assist smallholder farmers in Kenya in adopting sustainable agricultural practices. The signing, attended by notable dignitaries, occurred in Nairobi, highlighting the shared commitment to agricultural enhancement in the region.
Agriculture plays a crucial role in Kenya’s economy, contributing around 30 percent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and approximately 45 percent to export earnings. The sector is vital for rural livelihoods, providing sustenance for 75 percent of rural communities and employing over 70 percent of the rural workforce, with a significant number being women and youth.
The EGF, through the implementation of the CRAFS project, aims to facilitate the adoption of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) among Kenyan smallholder farmers. This methodology is designed to improve productivity, enhance climate resilience, and minimize agricultural emissions through sustainable practices. The initiative encompasses training, financial access, and knowledge exchange, facilitated by a dedicated field team.
The CRAFS project specifically targets 15,000 farmers annually involved in livestock and crop value chains. It also intends to educate farmers on energy utilization, sustainable production practices, and effective water management strategies. In addition, the project aims to encourage collaboration among suppliers and value chain participants to empower farmers and develop micro-businesses.
The French Ambassador to Kenya emphasized the significance of agriculture in employment, food security, and environmental sustainability, asserting that the partnership between France, Proparco, and EGF is pivotal in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises. He remarked, “This project illustrates that our steadfast partnership with Equity Group will allow local businesses to thrive and grassroot initiatives to emerge in sectors such as agriculture…”
Proparco’s Regional Director for East Africa expressed satisfaction in reinforcing their partnership with Equity Group, a notable player in Africa’s agricultural landscape. He emphasized the value of this technical support in facilitating tangible changes in the sector, saying, “Our technical support backs this approach, and we thank EGF for its trust.”
Equity Group’s CEO, Dr. James Mwangi, remarked on the significance of this collaboration, stating that it represents progress for individuals, families, and communities. He indicated that promoting climate-smart agriculture would enable farmers to enhance their productivity, resilience against climate challenges, and contribute to a sustainable future. Dr. Mwangi emphasized the need for support for smallholder farmers, asserting, “Equity is committed to helping them navigate these challenges.”
The partnership between Proparco and Equity Group represents a significant step towards enhancing agricultural practices among smallholder farmers in Kenya. With substantial financial support directed towards the CRAFS project, the initiative aims to promote sustainable farming methods, ultimately benefiting rural communities significantly. The involvement of various stakeholders showcases a collaborative effort to bolster productivity, resilience, and sustainability in the agricultural sector, emphasizing the importance of supporting smallholder farmers.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
