The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has wrapped up his tour of the United States, securing fresh opportunities for Kenya’s farm exports, investment partnerships, and farmer empowerment initiatives.
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In meetings with Gavin Van Der Burgh, CEO of the United States Africa Trade Desk (USATD), Kagwe obtained assurances that Kenyan produce will gain wider access to U.S. retail outlets, boosting demand and visibility. USATD also committed to financing support that will help Kenyan exporters meet higher export volumes and maintain stable supply chains.
The CS appealed to American investors to channel resources into large-scale farming and agro-processing in Kenya, particularly in wheat, maize, and rice, saying such ventures could shift Kenya from food importer to exporter, while improving national food security.
At the Kenya Consulate in New York, Kagwe also met Mastercard Executive Vice President Tara Nathan, where they agreed to explore the creation of a centralised Agriculture Information and Resource Centre (AIRC) to consolidate farmer data, expand credit access, and enhance transparency. Mastercard further pledged to support farmers in registering as businesses to unlock financing opportunities.
Kenya also forged a partnership with South Carolina State University’s 1890 Research & Extension programme to enhance training, research into improved crop breeds, knowledge-sharing, and extension services. Kagwe said this would strengthen Kenya’s capacity to produce resilient crops and equip a skilled agricultural workforce.
The mission also saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) and the South Carolina African American Chamber of Commerce (SCAACC), representing more than 15,000 businesses.
The pact aims to promote trade, attract investment, and enhance collaboration between the two regions.
