Kenyans are being urged to lease idle government land to help bridge the country’s widening food deficit. The call comes amid growing concerns over rising imports of essential food commodities such as rice, wheat, palm oil, cotton, and yellow maize.
The government is pushing for increased involvement of the private sector in agriculture through the leasing of unused public land. Land under the Agricultural Development Corporation and the Kenya Prisons Service has been identified as readily available for this initiative. By tapping into these resources, stakeholders can significantly boost local food production, especially of crops like rice and wheat, which Kenya heavily relies on from foreign markets.
In a move to highlight the potential of public-private partnerships, recent successes in the leasing of government-owned sugar factories, such as Nzoia and Mumias, were cited. These ventures have revitalized the sugar sector, and for the first time in years, Kenya has not needed to import maize or sugar, showcasing the impact of such collaborations.
The message was delivered during the official opening of this year’s Nakuru ASK National Show, which attracted 150 exhibitors, including 35 new participants. The growing number of exhibitors indicates increasing interest in the agricultural sector and the show’s significance as a platform for knowledge exchange and innovation.
Local county leadership also emphasized the importance of agricultural development. Notably, there has been a renewed commitment to reviving pyrethrum farming in Nakuru, with over 36 million seedlings distributed in the last two years. This initiative is expected to provide alternative income sources for farmers and improve rural livelihoods.
Among the standout performers at the show was the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), which won 11 awards across various categories. KPA’s exhibits were commended for aligning with this year’s theme, “Promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Growth.” The authority showcased its efforts to modernize port operations while adopting green energy solutions to reduce its environmental impact.
Other notable winners included Kenya Seed Company, Kenya Prisons Service, KARLO Njoro, Egerton University, and Kabarak University, all of whom demonstrated significant advancements in agricultural research, education, and innovation.
The show’s success reflects the country’s increasing focus on sustainable agriculture, trade, and climate resilience. With the next agricultural show scheduled for Kisumu in two weeks, stakeholders are expected to continue highlighting innovations that support food security and environmental sustainability. The call to lease idle land signals a broader shift towards inclusive agricultural development, inviting both private investors and local farmers to participate in addressing Kenya’s food challenges.
