Proparco Partners with Equity Group to Enhance Kenyan Smallholder Farming
Proparco has provided Sh141 million to Equity Group for the CRAFS project, aiding smallholder farmers in Kenya to adopt sustainable agricultural practices. The project focuses on enhancing productivity and resilience against climate challenges, targeting 15,000 farmers annually. Key figures in agriculture emphasize the importance of this partnership for economic growth and community development.
Proparco has entered into a significant partnership with Equity Group, providing over Sh141 million for the implementation of the “Climate Resilient Agri-Food Systems” (CRAFS) project aimed at assisting smallholder farmers in Kenya. This partnership was formalized during a ceremony in Nairobi attended by notable figures, including the French Ambassador to Kenya, Arnaud Suquet, and Dr. James Mwangi, CEO of Equity Group.
Agriculture plays a pivotal role in Kenya’s economy, constituting around 30 percent of the national GDP and generating 45 percent of export earnings. It is integral to rural livelihoods, employing over 70 percent of the rural workforce, including a significant number of women and youth. The CRAFS project will facilitate the adoption of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) to enhance productivity and resilience among smallholder farmers.
Additionally, the CRAFS initiative will provide necessary training, financial access, and knowledge sharing to small-scale producers. A dedicated field team will oversee the project’s local implementation, while value chain actors will help empower farmers and micro-businesses. The project aims to reach 15,000 farmers each year involved in various agricultural segments, offering support in energy use, sustainable practices, and efficient water management.
Ambassador Suquet emphasized the importance of agriculture for employment and food security, asserting that the collaboration between Proparco and Equity Group will greatly benefit small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as well as entrepreneurship in Kenya. He affirmed that this project showcases their ongoing partnership, which extends to various sectors including agriculture, health, and renewable energy.
Jean Guyonnet-Dupérat, Proparco’s Regional Director for East Africa, conveyed satisfaction in strengthening ties with Equity Group. He commented that this technical support reflects a commitment to effecting concrete changes that benefit Kenyan agricultural actors, from small farmers to industry innovators.
Furthermore, Dr. Mwangi highlighted the significance of this partnership in terms of supporting farmers and communities in adapting to evolving challenges. He stated that by promoting climate-smart agriculture, the partnership will enable farmers to improve productivity and resilience, thereby contributing to a sustainable agricultural future in Kenya.
In summary, Proparco’s partnership with Equity Group marks a significant investment aimed at supporting Kenyan smallholder farmers through the CRAFS initiative. By providing financial assistance, training, and knowledge sharing, the project seeks to enhance agricultural productivity and climate resilience. The commitment from both organizations reflects a profound understanding of agriculture’s vital role in Kenya’s economy and commitment to empowering rural communities.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
