Proparco Invests Sh141 Million in Supporting Smallholder Farmers in Kenya

Proparco, in collaboration with Equity Group, has allocated over Sh141 million to support Kenyan smallholder farmers through the CRAFS project. This initiative promotes Climate-Smart Agriculture, enhancing productivity and resilience while minimizing emissions. The project aims to reach 15,000 farmers annually, focusing on sustainable practices and community empowerment. Prominent leaders endorsed the partnership’s significance in driving economic growth and supporting rural livelihoods in Kenya.

Proparco, in partnership with Equity Group, has allocated a total of Sh141,260,000 to the Equity Group Foundation (EGF) for the implementation of the project entitled “Climate Resilient Agri-Food Systems” (CRAFS). This initiative aims to support Kenyan smallholder farmers by promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The formal agreement was signed in Nairobi, with notable attendees such as the French Ambassador to Kenya, Arnaud Suquet, and Proparco’s Regional Director for East Africa, Jean Guyonnet-Dupérat.

Agriculture plays a vital role in Kenya’s economy, contributing approximately 30 percent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 45 percent of the country’s export earnings. It aids in sustaining 75 percent of rural communities and employs over 70 percent of the rural workforce, with a significant number of women and youth involved. The CRAFTS project aims to enhance farmers’ livelihoods by incorporating Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) techniques that will improve productivity, as well as resilience to climate shocks, and minimize agricultural emissions.

The initiative promises to deliver training, improve access to finance, and facilitate knowledge exchange for small-scale producers. A dedicated field team will oversee on-the-ground implementation, with suppliers and value chain participants playing crucial roles in empowering farmers and fostering micro-businesses. The project aims to engage 15,000 farmers each year within livestock or crop value chains, focusing on various sustainable practices including waste-to-energy technologies and efficient water management.

Ambassador Suquet noted that agriculture is pivotal for employment, food security, and generating foreign currency in Kenya. He emphasized that the collaboration between France, through Proparco, and EGF is crucial in supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurship. He stated, “This project illustrates that our steadfast partnership with Equity Group will allow local businesses to thrive and grassroots initiatives to emerge in sectors such as agriculture but also health, higher education, fintech, and renewable energy.”

Jean Guyonnet-Dupérat expressed his satisfaction in strengthening the alliance with Equity Group, suggesting that Proparco’s support would enable concrete positive changes for Kenyan farmers and innovators in agriculture. He affirmed the collaboration by stating, “Our technical support backs this approach, and we thank EGF for its trust.”

Dr. James Mwangi, the CEO of Equity Group, highlighted that this partnership marks another significant step in supporting farmers, families, and communities. He assured that through CSA, farmers will be empowered to elevate their productivity and build resilience against climate challenges. Dr. Mwangi remarked, “By embracing climate-smart agriculture, we will empower farmers to increase their productivity, build resilience against climate shocks, and contribute to a more sustainable future.” He reiterated the commitment of Equity Group to assist smallholder farmers in navigating agricultural risks effectively.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Proparco and Equity Group Foundation symbolizes a significant investment in sustainable agricultural practices aimed at benefiting Kenyan smallholder farmers. With a focus on Climate-Smart Agriculture, the CRAFS project seeks to improve productivity, resilience, and environmental sustainability. Ultimately, this partnership represents a crucial effort to enhance livelihoods and foster economic growth within Kenya’s agricultural sector.

Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke