Middle East Conflict Threatens Kenya’s Farm Exports
Source: The Star
Kenya’s agricultural exports to the Middle East are facing growing uncertainty as geopolitical tensions escalate across the region. Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe warned that the instability could disrupt export markets valued at nearly Sh300 million, particularly within the horticulture sector.
The Middle East remains a critical destination for Kenyan produce, especially fresh vegetables, fruits and flowers. However, exporters are already raising concerns about potential shipping delays, rising freight costs and weakening demand if the conflict persists. As a result, farmers and agribusinesses that depend heavily on Gulf markets face heightened exposure to external shocks.
In response, industry players are actively exploring alternative markets to cushion themselves against potential losses. At the same time, government officials are monitoring the situation closely and working with exporters to manage emerging risks. Authorities have also urged producers to diversify export destinations and strengthen domestic value chains. Consequently, reducing reliance on a limited number of international markets has become an urgent priority for long-term resilience.
Floods Disrupt Farming and Livelihoods in Several Counties
Source: Reuters
Heavy rains in early March triggered severe flooding across several parts of Kenya, significantly disrupting farming activities and rural livelihoods. Rising water levels destroyed crops, displaced families and damaged critical infrastructure, including roads that connect farms to markets.
Farmers in low-lying areas reported widespread crop losses as floodwaters submerged fields. In addition, damaged transport networks made it difficult for traders to move fresh produce to urban centres, thereby interrupting supply chains. Agricultural officers warned that if disruptions persist, localized food shortages could emerge in affected areas.
The government has since initiated emergency response measures, including relief food distribution and support for displaced households. Meanwhile, authorities are assessing the full extent of agricultural damage to inform recovery planning. Experts continue to emphasise the importance of improved flood control systems and climate-resilient farming practices. As weather patterns grow more unpredictable, proactive adaptation strategies will remain essential to safeguarding production and farmer incomes.
Coffee Prices Rise at Nairobi Coffee Exchange
Source: Kilimo News
Kenya’s coffee sector has recorded improved returns after prices strengthened at the Nairobi Coffee Exchange during recent auction sales. The exchange reported transactions worth approximately $11.6 million, reflecting steady global demand despite a slight decline in the volume of beans offered.
High-quality Kenyan coffee varieties continue to attract strong interest from international buyers. Therefore, stable pricing offers encouragement to farmers and cooperative societies that rely on the auction system to market their produce. Coffee remains one of Kenya’s most important cash crops and a key source of foreign exchange earnings.
However, the sector still faces structural challenges, including declining production, aging coffee trees and rising input costs. In response, agricultural officials are encouraging farmers to rehabilitate old plantations and adopt improved varieties. If these efforts align with sustained global demand, the sector could regain momentum and deliver higher, more stable incomes for farmers.
New Digital Portal to Improve Coffee Seedlings Tracking in Uasin Gishu
Source: Kilimo News
A new digital platform known as the Coffee Mkulima Portal has been introduced in Uasin Gishu County to improve the tracking and management of coffee seedlings. The county’s ICT department developed the system to replace manual record-keeping and enhance transparency in seedling distribution.
The platform uses GPS-enabled technology to track seedlings from nursery stages through distribution and eventual planting. As a result, authorities can reduce losses, improve accountability and ensure that inputs reach the intended farmers. In addition, the system enables mapping of farmer locations and supports more accurate monitoring of programme outcomes.
Farmers also benefit directly from integrated features such as soil zone mapping, pest and disease alerts, rainfall risk updates and access to potential market linkages. Furthermore, the county has introduced training programmes to support adoption among farmers and extension officers. This initiative reflects a broader push toward digital agriculture, where data-driven systems improve efficiency and strengthen value chain coordination.
Sh164 Million Dam Set to Transform Farming in Homa Bay
Source: Nation Africa
Farmers in Homa Bay County are set to benefit from a Sh164 million dam project designed to address both flooding and drought while improving agricultural productivity. The Rambira dam, developed by the National Irrigation Authority, will capture excess rainwater that previously caused damage and store it for use during dry seasons.
For years, farmers in the region have struggled with extreme weather patterns, where heavy rains flood farms, and prolonged dry spells follow. However, the new reservoir will stabilise water availability and support year-round crop production. Once operational, the irrigation scheme is expected to support farming on approximately 200 acres, enabling cultivation of high-value crops such as tomatoes, onions and kale.
Beyond crop production, the dam will provide a reliable water source for livestock and nearby households. Consequently, residents will no longer need to travel long distances in search of water during dry periods. Officials emphasise that the project forms part of a broader national strategy to expand irrigation, reduce climate vulnerability and strengthen food security across Kenya.