Kenya has underscored the need to leverage digital technologies to transform Africa’s agricultural systems and unlock new opportunities for trade, food security and youth empowerment.
Speaking during the 18th COMESA Business Forum and the 24th COMESA Summit of Heads of State and Government in Nairobi, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Principal Secretary Susan Mang’eni emphasized that digital technologies can unlock Africa’s agricultural potential expand markets, increase efficiency, and empower the youth who she says account for 70pc of Africa’s population.
She decried that agriculture contributes 40pc of Kenya’s GDP, yet many jobs remain insecure stressing that digitisation can make the sector sustainable and inclusive.
“Digital technologies can unlock Africa’s agricultural potential expanding markets, increasing efficiency, and empowering our youth. 70pc of Africa’s population is under 35 years. When we talk about MSMEs and growth, we’re talking about young people the true engine of our continent’s future.” She stressed.
The PS acknowledged that the Kenya – EU trade agreement signed last year has opened new doors for MSMEs giving them access to global markets.
She urged entrepreneurs to focus on value addition to raw materials, in order to create more jobs and strengthen the country’s export competitiveness.
“Kenya’s EU trade agreement has opened new doors for our MSMEs giving them access to global markets and a chance to grow beyond borders. For too long, Africa’s exports have been raw materials. It’s time we add value, create jobs, and make agriculture truly work for our people.” The PS noted.
The PS highlighted the growing role of precision agriculture technologies, which enable farmers to monitor soil conditions, weather patterns, and crop health in real time.
Similarly, she pointed to predictive analytics that help anticipate market demands and optimize planting schedules, improving productivity and profitability.
Further the PS noted that the digital marketplaces are transforming the way farmers do business by connecting smallholders directly with regional and international buyers, cutting out intermediaries and ensuring fairer prices decrying that homegrown payment systems remain a key challenge in unlocking intra-African trade.
“Digital marketplaces are transforming agriculture by connecting smallholder farmers directly with critical international buyers, intermediaries, and markets. This ensures fair enterprise practices and transparent transactions.” She noted. Adding that: “Digital agriculture has become a strategic priority for ensuring food security, fostering economic growth, and creating jobs across Africa.”
Maximizing digital innovation in agriculture will require coordinated regional efforts, addressing issues such as digital infrastructure, technology development, and active private sector engagement.
