[Machakos, Kenya – 10th July 2024] – The Eastern African Grain Council in partnership with Machakos County, TradeMark Africa (TMA) through its USAID – Economic Recovery and Reform Activity (USAID-ERRA) program, and Danish Industry, today transformative Agribusiness Expo at KALRO Katumani aimed to promote climate-smart technologies and practices for sustainable food systems.
The expo presided over by H.E, Hon Wavinya Ndeti, Governor of Machakos County attracted over 30 exhibitors and more than – 1,000 farmers, creating a vibrant platform for showcasing innovative climate-change technologies. Key exhibitors included Scales & Software Limited, which displayed weighing solutions across various industries such as manufacturing, food and agribusiness, dairy, and transport. Kibo Africa showcased high-quality motorcycles specifically designed for the African terrain. Additionally, Cosmos Limited presented quality pharmaceutical supplies, while KG Mills featuring maize and wheat milling machines.
The challenge of climate change demands urgent adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. The Agribusiness Expo provided an invaluable opportunity for stakeholders to explore climate-smart solutions, fostering resilience and sustainability in the agricultural sector.
In his opening remarks, Gerald Masila, Executive Director, EAGC, highlighted the Council’s crucial role in facilitating grain trade, sharing market information, and providing various training to critical industry stakeholders. “Our commitment is to create efficient and structured grain markets that empower farmers and enhance food security,” stated Mr Masila.
The expo also saw active participation from the County Governments of Kitui, Makueni, and Kajiado, each underpinning a collective commitment to advancing agribusiness advancements and supporting local farmers in the lower eastern region. The expo also highlighted crop and livestock demonstration units, machinery displays, conservation agriculture exhibits, B2B meetings, and extensive farmer training sessions.
EAGC’s Climate Smart Technologies Hub highlighted sustainable practices, such as water harvesting, renewable energy use, modern kitchen gardens, organic farming, and drought-resistant crop varieties. In partnership with the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology, farmers received training on insect-based farming and agroforestry, equipping them with knowledge to adopt sustainable practices.
Giving her keynote address, H.E. Francis Mwangangi, Deputy Governor of Machakos County, reaffirmed the County’s commitment to sustainable development, adopting climate-smart technologies is crucial for enhancing food security and agricultural productivity. This expo is a valuable platform for sharing best practices and innovative solutions,” she remarked. The Governor emphasized Machakos County’s strategic goal of driving economic growth and ensuring a resilient agricultural sector.
KALRO operates the country’s only Aflasafe manufacturing plant, a facility dedicated to combating aflatoxin contamination at the farm level. This plant produces Aflasafe, a biocontrol product that significantly reduces aflatoxin levels in crops such as maize and groundnuts, ensuring safer food for consumption and higher market value. Food quality and safety are core to public health and consumer trust, so F&S Scientific stands at the forefront of ensuring these standards through its supply of food testing instruments.
Dr. Patrick Ketiem, Institute Director at KALRO Katumani, commended EAGC for complementing KALRO’s efforts in applying science, technology, and innovation to drive sustainable growth and development in agriculture and livestock product value chains. Dr. Ketiem noted that the collaboration has enhanced the impact of KALRO’s research and initiatives, fostering a more dynamic and resilient agricultural sector. He expressed gratitude for EAGC’s role in supporting the integration of innovative solutions crucial for achieving long-term sustainability and boosting regional productivity.
EAGC’s ongoing partnership with Itanya Africa Group aims to provide sustainable solutions for farmers adapting to climate change. As an exhibitor from GrainPro noted, “This expo has provided a crucial platform for showcasing innovative solutions and forging valuable connections. Through collaboration and commitment, we can significantly advance the efficiency and sustainability of our agricultural systems.”
The expo heralds a promising future for agribusiness stakeholders, highlighting the importance of continued engagement and support for such initiatives.
