Kenya has intensified its appeal to developed countries and international investors to fast-track funding for climate-smart agriculture, cautioning that delays could disrupt global food systems.
Addressing delegates at the 3rd Climate Change Global Business Summit on Africa held in Nairobi, Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe stated that climate change is no longer a distant concern but an ongoing crisis already affecting agricultural production.
“Climate change is no longer a future threat but a present crisis already disrupting farming systems,” said Kagwe.
He explained that Kenya’s dependence on rain-fed farming has exposed millions to risk, noting that five consecutive failed rainy seasons between 2020 and 2023 have driven over four million people into food insecurity and caused widespread livestock losses.
“Our heavy reliance on rain-fed agriculture has left millions vulnerable, with five failed rainy seasons between 2020 and 2023, over four million people pushed into food insecurity, and significant livestock losses,” he added.
Kagwe noted that the situation remains critical across the country.
“The crisis persists, with parts of the country facing floods while others endure drought and extreme heat,” he said.
He further stressed that Africa must play a central role in shaping global climate policies.
“Africa must no longer be sidelined in global climate decision-making. Solutions must be locally driven and tailored to farmers’ realities,” Kagwe emphasised.
In addition, the Cabinet Secretary called for stronger accountability from developed nations.
“We must enforce the ‘polluter pays’ principle and ensure developed economies match their climate commitments with accountable financing,” he said.
While acknowledging Kenya’s progress in renewable energy, irrigation, climate-smart technologies, and resilience-building initiatives—supported by over USD 250 million in climate financing—Kagwe maintained that more investment is still required.
“Significantly more capital is needed to unlock Africa’s agricultural potential,” he stated.
Framing Africa as central to global food security, he encouraged investors to reconsider their perspective.
“Climate-smart agriculture is not a risk but one of the biggest opportunities of the decade, and Kenya is ready to lead in driving sustainable agricultural transformation,” Kagwe said.
By: Catherine Kamunyo
