Kenya launches World Agriculture Forum Country Council to Drive AI, Bioengineering in Agriculture

The council was unveiled at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) in Nairobi under the theme “The Convergence of Intelligence: Strategic Investments in AI and Bioengineering for a Resilient Agricultural Future.”

The event brought together government officials, researchers, investors and agribusiness leaders to examine how emerging technologies can strengthen productivity and resilience in food systems.

The initiative comes amid mounting pressure on Kenya’s agriculture sector from climate variability, supply chain disruptions and a growing population. The WAF council is expected to link policy with implementation by developing investment pipelines that combine digital tools with advances in biological science.

Speaking on behalf of the Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Principal Secretary for Science, Research and Innovation Prof. Shaukat said the initiative reflects Kenya’s ambition to lead what he termed a “convergence decade,” where data-driven technologies and biological innovation work in tandem.

He noted that the programme aligns with national and continental frameworks, including the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, the AI Strategy 2025–2030 and Africa-wide agricultural development goals.

WAF Global Executive Director M. J. Khan said the forum will support countries in shaping more resilient food systems by leveraging data and global partnerships. He added that WAF will operationalise its agenda through platforms focused on soil health, digital agriculture, sustainability and trade.

“WAF is committed to providing thought leadership and setting the agenda for food systems growth in the face of global challenges such as trade barriers, climate change, and population pressures. Data is the new fertilizer, and through our global councils, we aim to harness it to drive smarter, more resilient agricultural systems,” said Dr. Khan.

At the host institution, ILRI Director General Appolinaire Djikeng said the partnership builds on ongoing collaboration aimed at improving food security and reducing poverty through science-led solutions.

WAF Kenya Country Director Oscar EV Magenya said the council will prioritise implementation by coordinating government, private sector and research actors to deliver measurable outcomes for farmers, including higher productivity and improved incomes.

Industry stakeholders highlighted the role of technology in transforming agriculture at farm level. Timothy Wanjohi, CEO of Market Farm Ltd, cited the impact of digital advisory platforms, AI tools and solar-powered systems in reducing post-harvest losses and improving market access.

The council will work with national and county governments to develop financing models, regulatory frameworks and farmer safeguards. Its initial target is to establish a scalable model by 2028 that connects global investment with local innovation and accelerates adoption of AI and bioengineering in agriculture.