Agricultural stakeholders have called for stronger collaboration between Coastal County governments and private sector players to accelerate the adoption of modern farming practices and enhance food security across the country.
The stakeholders made the appeal during an agricultural exhibition organized by Mazao Group and Agitech Seedlings at Kibokoni on the outskirts of Malindi town in Kilifi County. They emphasized that addressing challenges facing farmers requires coordinated efforts among governments, private investors, development partners and farming communities.
More than 3,500 farmers, exhibitors and agricultural stakeholders attended the second edition of the Agitech Grand Expo 2026, which showcased innovative farming technologies and practical solutions aimed at increasing productivity and improving livelihoods.
The event attracted senior county officials, including Kilifi Deputy Governor Flora Chibule, County Executive Committee Member for Trade, Tourism and Cooperative Development Raymond Ngala, and County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture Dr. Paterson Chula.
Speaking during the expo, Mazao Group Director Peter Karanja said partnerships are essential in supporting farmers with knowledge, technologies and market opportunities.
“The government cannot do it alone and neither can the private sector. Through collaboration, we can organize expos, open days and training programmes that empower farmers and improve food production,” he said.
Karanja noted that the expo focused on practical demonstrations to enable farmers to learn directly from experts and technology providers. Participants were exposed to solar-powered irrigation systems, drone technology for crop management and pesticide application, improved seed varieties and modern farming techniques.
He observed that the Coast region possesses immense agricultural potential and can significantly contribute to national food production if farmers are equipped with modern technologies and skills.
Agitech Seedlings Director Dr. Zipporah Gitonga encouraged farmers to embrace soil testing to improve productivity and make informed decisions on crop selection. She urged them to diversify production by venturing into high-value crops such as beetroot, cucumbers, capsicum, okra and tomatoes.
Dr. Gitonga said the Agitech demonstration farm in Malindi would remain accessible throughout the year to provide continuous training, technical guidance and support to farmers seeking to improve their agricultural practices.
Kilifi Deputy Governor Flora Chibule reaffirmed the county government’s commitment to strengthening agriculture as a key strategy for tackling food insecurity, unemployment and poverty.
She revealed that the county administration is exploring ways of reviving agricultural shows in Malindi and establishing permanent demonstration farms where farmers can acquire practical skills and interact with emerging technologies.
Local farmer Joseph Ruwa challenged both the national and county governments to increase funding for agriculture and provide more direct support to smallholder farmers. He also urged agricultural extension officers to spend more time engaging with farmers in villages and encouraged young people to embrace farming as a profitable business venture.
The stakeholders agreed that stronger partnerships, innovation and continuous farmer education remain critical in achieving sustainable agricultural growth and long-term food security.
By Shani Rhai and Martin Mwangolo
