Kenya accelerates smart farming efforts nationwide

Kenya is fast-tracking its adoption of smart farming technologies to improve agricultural productivity, sustainability, and food security across the country. Government agencies, startups, and research institutions are deploying tools such as artificial intelligence (AI), drone monitoring, precision irrigation, and data analytics to optimize crop yields, monitor soil health, and reduce post-harvest losses. Officials say these initiatives are critical for supporting farmers, modernizing the agriculture sector, and strengthening Kenya’s position as a leader in digital agricultural innovation in Africa.
The push for smart farming is supported by national programs such as the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy launched on 27 March 2025, which outlines a framework for integrating AI into key sectors, and the Kenya AI Skilling Alliance (KAISA) launched on 29 October 2025, which provides training, mentorship, and support to innovators and agritech startups. Pilot projects already underway include AI-driven crop disease detection systems, automated irrigation solutions powered by solar energy, and predictive analytics for market pricing. These technologies are helping farmers increase efficiency, reduce costs, and make more informed decisions in both rural and urban farming communities.
Experts say that Kenya’s investment in smart farming has the potential to transform the agriculture sector, increase food security, and boost the livelihoods of farmers across the country. They stress the need for continued support in digital skills training, infrastructure, and data governance to ensure these technologies are accessible and effective. Looking ahead, Kenya’s accelerated smart farming efforts are expected to drive innovation, enhance agricultural productivity, and serve as a model for technology-driven farming solutions across Africa.