Public-private partnerships essential in boosting food production, CS Linturi says

Kenya Kwanza Government is focused on enhancing long-term resilience and increasing investments in agricultural capacity to bolster domestic food production, Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi has said. 

Speaking during AGRA's 2023-2027 strategy launch event on Wednesday, Linturi said public-private partnerships are essential, as they have the potential to revolutionize food security in Kenya. 

By leveraging the strengths of both sectors, the CS said these partnerships can create sustainable solutions that benefit the entire population.

John Macharia, the Country Manager for AGRA in Kenya, echoed Linturi’s sentiments, emphasizing the pressing need for increased government funding in the agriculture sector, particularly in light of its significant contribution to government revenue. 

He stressed the sector's untapped potential and called for a more substantial allocation of the budget to agriculture to unlock its full economic and developmental benefits.

The strategy launch event served as a platform for collaborative discussions among government officials, private sector representatives, and smallholder farmers. 

It provided an opportunity to address sector challenges and explore innovative solutions that can drive sustainable agricultural development in Kenya.

AGRA showcased its commitment to building resilience through innovation, to foster the adoption of inclusive markets that prioritize small-scale farmers, especially women and youth, recognizing their vital role in sustainable agricultural development.