Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Senator Mutahi Kagwe has urged greater youth participation in farming, warning that the sector’s sustainability is under threat as the average age of Kenyan farmers rises to 64 years.
Speaking at the 5th National Agribusiness Summit held on October 22, 2025, Kagwe made a passionate appeal to parents to transfer land to their children and encourage them to view agribusiness as a profitable and dignified career.
“It’s time to engage the youth in agriculture,” the CS declared, emphasizing that young people bring energy, innovation, and technological skills crucial for transforming Kenya’s food systems.
“The youth are not only more productive but also quick to embrace technology, which is key to modernizing our food systems and achieving food security,” he added.
Kagwe highlighted that soil health must remain at the center of Kenya’s agricultural productivity agenda. As the population continues to grow and arable land diminishes, he noted that soil testing and the use of appropriate inputs are essential to improve yields and ensure sustainable farming practices.
To strengthen policy outcomes, Kagwe urged stronger collaboration between the government and the private sector in shaping agricultural policies. He said private sector input is vital in ensuring that budget allocations align with real industry needs.
“We are aligning the Budget Policy Framework to reflect the true needs of Kenya’s agriculture sector — ensuring industry priorities are embedded in national planning,” Kagwe said.
Citing the tea sector as a success story, the CS revealed that the government reduced taxes on packaging materials after local processors raised concerns about high costs.
“It was unacceptable that Kenyan tea was being packaged abroad while our youth needed jobs here,” he said. “We listened and acted — and going forward, this will apply across all value chains, including flowers and dairy.”
The summit, which brought together farmers, agribusiness investors, and policymakers, focused on innovation, investment, and sustainable practices as drivers of Kenya’s agricultural transformation.
Kagwe reaffirmed that empowering youth and modernizing farming methods will be key to securing the country’s food future.
