The Government of Kenya has signed a Sh34.1 billion (US $262.6 million) agreement with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) to implement the Integrated Natural Resources Management Programme (INReMP).
The eight-year programme, IFAD’s largest ever in Kenya, will be rolled out in 10 counties: Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Nandi, Kakamega, Kericho, Kisumu, Homa Bay, and Migori. It aims to benefit over 407,000 vulnerable rural households, reaching more than two million Kenyans.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Agriculture Principal Secretary Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh highlighted the government’s commitment to transformative reforms in the agriculture sector. He noted that the programme aligns with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), Kenya Vision 2030, and the Agricultural Sector Transformation and Growth Strategy (ASTGS 2019–2029).
“This investment underscores our determination to empower rural communities through integrated natural resource management,” said Dr. Ronoh. “We appreciate IFAD’s continued support and are committed to timely and effective implementation.”
The agreement was signed by National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi and IFAD Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Sara Mbago-Bhunu. The event was witnessed by key government officials, including Environment CS Dr. Debora Mlongo Barasa, PS Interior Dr. Raymond Omollo, and PS Environment and Climate Change Dr. Festus Ngeno.
INReMP focuses on climate-smart sustainable agriculture, aiming to enhance food and nutrition security, build resilience to climate change, and promote sustainable livelihoods. It will also prioritize inclusivity by targeting women, youth, and other vulnerable groups.
Key components of the programme include improving land and water resource management, boosting agricultural productivity, promoting agroforestry, and strengthening rural enterprises and value chains.
The financing structure blends contributions from IFAD, the Government of Kenya, and private stakeholders reflecting a unified commitment to sustainable development. Once fully implemented, INReMP is expected to play a pivotal role in poverty reduction and inclusive economic growth across rural Kenya.
