CS urges Africa to add value to commodities to boost farmers’ earnings

CELESTINE LOMOLIJAH-KNA

The Kenyan government and the private sector have emphasized the need for Africa to strengthen its commodity value chains to enhance global competitiveness and boost earnings for farmers and economies.

Speaking during a high-level forum in Nairobi, Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate, and Forestry Dr. Deborah Barasa emphasized that Africa must move beyond exporting raw commodities and instead focus on adding value to products such as coffee, tea, and cocoa.

“Africa has immense potential in agriculture, but we must shift from being primary producers to global leaders in value-added commodities,” she urged, noting that this transition would significantly increase the continent’s share of global earnings.

The session, themed ‘Strengthening Africa’s Commodity Value Chains: From Production to Global Market Leadership’, brought together policymakers, development partners and private sector players to explore ways of improving productivity, sustainability and market access.

Notably, Dr. Barasa highlighted the importance of adopting technology and sustainable practices to improve supply chain efficiency and transparency.

She pointed out that digitization and traceability systems can help African producers meet international standards while building trust with global buyers.

In remarks delivered on her behalf by Director of Environment Policy, Research and Regulations Wangari Kirumba, the CS called for increased investment in climate smart agriculture to enhance resilience among farmers in the face of climate change.

“Our farmers are at the frontline of climate impacts. We must equip them with the right tools, financing and knowledge to adapt and thrive,” she added.

In the meantime, the session, moderated by Rosa Mutero, an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya, speakers in the meeting stressed the need for collaborative approaches between governments, private sector and development partners to unlock Africa’s agricultural potential.

To this regard, Baringo County Governor Benjamin Cheboi noted that county governments play a critical role in supporting farmers through extension services and infrastructure development.

“We must empower farmers at the grassroots level by improving access to markets, financing and modern farming techniques,” he said.