The recently concluded Kilimo Biashara Expo at KALRO Seeds Headquarters marked a significant milestone in Kenya’s agricultural landscape by introducing a groundbreaking section dubbed “Promoting youth in agriculture” for the first time. This strategic addition transformed the traditional agricultural exhibition into a dynamic platform that bridged experienced farmers with emerging young agripreneurs.
The expo showcased remarkable innovation, as young entrepreneurs displayed an impressive array of value-added products spanning crop and animal value chains. From organic fertilizers to smart poultry brooders, digital dispensers, and digital farming applications, the youth exhibits demonstrated the untapped potential of Kenya’s next generation of agricultural leaders.
The event was honored by several dignitaries’ presence, including the Chairman of the KALRO Board, the Member of Parliament for the Gatanga constituency, and the Director General of KALRO. Their attendance underscored the significance of this initiative in advancing Kenya’s agricultural development agenda and food security goals.
Over the two-day event, young agripreneurs seized unprecedented opportunities to market their businesses, forge meaningful connections with stakeholders, and establish mentorship relationships. Many reported securing training contracts, product orders, and investment interests from visitors impressed by their innovations.
The expo attracted farmers from distant regions and neighboring Murang’a and Kiambu counties. This diverse attendance created a rich knowledge-sharing environment where traditional farming wisdom met contemporary agricultural techniques and technologies.
The overwhelming success of the Youth in Agribusiness section has prompted organizers to plan to expand this component in future expos. KALRO officials indicated that targeted programs to support the youth exhibitors with follow-up resources, training, and market linkages are being developed.
As Kenya continues to address unemployment challenges and food security concerns, the Kilimo Biashara Expo has demonstrated that empowering youth in agriculture creates a viable pathway toward sustainable economic development and agricultural innovation.
The event closed with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to transform agriculture into an attractive, technology-driven sector that appeals to Kenya’s youthful population while honoring the wisdom and experience of established farming communities.
Contributed by Lorraine Mutinda
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