Proparco Partners with Equity Group to Boost Climate Resilience for Kenyan Farmers
Proparco has granted over Sh141 million to Equity Group Foundation for the CRAFS project, supporting smallholder farmers in Kenya. This initiative aims to enhance Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA), improving productivity and resilience against climate change. With plans to aid 15,000 farmers annually, it offers training, financial access, and sustainable practices to empower rural communities.
Proparco has announced a notable collaboration with Equity Group, providing Sh141,260,000 for the “Climate Resilient Agri-Food Systems” (CRAFS) project aimed at supporting smallholder farmers in Kenya. The signing ceremony occurred in Nairobi, attended by dignitaries including French Ambassador Arnaud Suquet, Proparco’s East Africa Regional Director Jean Guyonnet-Dupérat, and Equity Group CEO Dr. James Mwangi.
Agriculture plays a crucial role in Kenya’s economy, representing about 30% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and contributing 45% of export earnings. It sustains 75% of rural communities and employs over 70% of the rural workforce, with women and youth making up 60% of that workforce.
The CRAFS project aims to implement Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices that will enhance farmers’ productivity, resilience to climate challenges, and reduce emissions. This initiative will focus on training, financial access, and knowledge sharing through a dedicated field team engaging with small-scale producers.
The project will target 15,000 farmers involved in both livestock and crop value chains, providing training on sustainable practices, energy use, waste management, and water harvesting. The intent is to empower farmers and support micro-businesses through effective collaboration with suppliers.
Ambassador Suquet highlighted agriculture’s importance for employment and food security, stating that the partnership will bolster SMEs and entrepreneurship. He remarked that this collaboration could stimulate growth across various sectors, including health and renewable energy.
In summary, the agreement between Proparco and Equity Group signifies a robust commitment to enhancing agricultural practices among smallholder farmers in Kenya. Through the CRAFS project, both organizations aim to improve productivity and resilience against climate change effects, thereby supporting livelihoods and fostering sustainable development. This initiative, along with targeted training and financial access, is set to empower thousands of farmers and contribute positively to Kenya’s economy.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
