Kenya is set to host the International Conference on Contract Farming (ICCF 2024) which is deemed to be transformative for the agricultural sector.
Scheduled for November 12-13, 2024, at The Edge Convention Centre, Nairobi, this conference and expo has secured a diverse range of strategic partners.
The ICCF 2024 has also drawn interest from farmers, agribusiness leaders, exhibitors, and policymakers, with participation exceeding expectations.
“We are thrilled by the response and enthusiasm shown for this event. We have registered over 600 participants and received an overwhelming number of inquiries from stakeholders across the agricultural value chain. It truly reflects the importance of fostering dialogue and collaboration within the agricultural sector,” noted Peris Wanjiku, the organizer of the conference.
The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KNCCI), Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) and The Kenya National Farmers Federation (KENAFF) are some of the strategic partners for the conference.
Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development Dr Andrew Mwihia Karanja is expected to grace the occasion poised to facilitate in-depth discussions on advancing agricultural practices and partnerships.
The conference agenda covers a broad range of crucial topics, including the role of technology in transforming contract farming, policy issues and government involvement, challenges in contract compliance, market access strategies, and sustainable agricultural practices.
These discussions will address key areas that are vital for empowering farmers and strengthening value chains.
Speaking ahead of the conference, Lan Li, an Economist at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) with two decades of experience in economic and sustainable development, noted.
“While contract farming model can boost economic growth and sustainability, particularly in developing regions, challenges such as aligning with global standards and embracing technological advancements must be addressed and that’s why the International Conference on Contract Farming is key,” Lan Li said.
Lan Li will be one of the speakers during the conference.
Contract farming, defined by formal agreements between producers and buyers, remains a critical tool for securing market access and ensuring the consistent quality of agricultural products. However, challenges persist, including quality control, production risks, and fair pricing.
The International Conference on Contract Farming will serve as an essential forum to confront these challenges and explore actionable solutions, ultimately fostering stronger and more transparent partnerships in the sector