Kenya expands national agenda on smart farming

Kenya has announced an expansion of its national agenda on smart farming, reinforcing the country’s commitment to modernizing agriculture through technology. The initiative aims to integrate tools such as artificial intelligence (AI), precision irrigation, drone monitoring, and data analytics across key agricultural sectors to enhance productivity, improve resource management, and boost food security. Government officials emphasize that this expanded agenda will help farmers increase efficiency, reduce post-harvest losses, and position Kenya as a continental leader in technology-driven agriculture.
The expanded agenda builds on previous initiatives, including the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy launched on 27 March 2025, which outlines a framework for AI adoption, ethical governance, and sectoral integration, and the Kenya AI Skilling Alliance (KAISA) launched on 29 October 2025, which focuses on training, mentorship, and innovation support for agritech startups. Pilot projects include AI-assisted crop disease detection, automated irrigation systems, and predictive analytics for market pricing—demonstrating how technology is improving decision-making and outcomes for farmers in both rural and urban communities.
Experts have welcomed the expansion, noting that a coordinated national approach creates opportunities for entrepreneurship, investment, and innovation in the agriculture sector. They stress that inclusive access, robust digital infrastructure, and ethical AI practices will be critical for sustaining progress. Looking ahead, Kenya’s expanded smart farming agenda is expected to drive innovation, improve agricultural productivity, enhance livelihoods, and solidify the country’s leadership in technology-driven farming across Africa.