Kenya

Kenya has a varied climate, with arid and semi-arid areas in the north and east, while the central and western regions experience more temperate conditions due to higher altitudes.

Agriculture plays a vital role in Kenya’s economy, contributing about 33% to its GDP and providing employment for over 75% of the rural population. The sector faces challenges such as fluctuating rainfall patterns, frequent droughts, and soil degradation, which significantly affect smallholder farmers who are key to the country’s agricultural output. Despite these challenges, Kenya is a leader in agricultural innovation in the region, with a growing agritech ecosystem that aims to boost productivity, improve resilience, and create sustainable farming practices.

IWMI in Kenya

IWMI’s work in Kenya focuses on empowering smallholder farmers through the adoption of localized, science-based agritech innovations. Through Agritech4Kenya, IWMI supports the development and scaling of agritech solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of Kenyan farmers, helping to improve productivity and adapt to changing climate conditions. Additionally, IWMI explores the legitimacy of inclusive innovation processes, particularly through the perspectives of smallholder farmers in Uasin Gishu, ensuring that innovations are designed with their input and benefit in mind. By combining technology, knowledge-sharing, and community engagement, IWMI aims to create a more resilient and sustainable agricultural landscape in Kenya.

Projects in Kenya

Latest Kenya news

Kenya unveils digital tool to better manage irrigation and dam water

The Ministry of Water and Irrigation is rolling out a Water Availability and Demand dashboard developed by IWMI and FAO to guide decisions on how the country allocates and stores …

November-December 2025 Research Journal Roundup

Roundup of research, journal and other academic articles from November and December 2025 …

How to create lasting impact for refugees and community members

Circular bio-economy solutions offer a sustainable path to empowering displaced communities …

Kenya set to make irrigation a driver of development

IWMI supports Kenya’s public sector to build evidence-driven, inclusive and climate-resilient irrigation systems aligned with the National Irrigation Sector Investment Plan …

Latest Kenya publications

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Manual

Production of traditional leafy vegetables and spice crops under nature-positive and agroecological practices in Kenya: pest and disease management

International Water Management Institute | January 30th, 2026
Adamtey, Noah; Nderitu, E. M.; Kibet, J.; Munyoki, N.
Open Access
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Report

Operational efficiency and economic insights of black soldier fly farming: evidence from a facility in Kisumu, Kenya

International Water Management Institute | January 29th, 2026
Adamtey, Noah; Kibet, J.; Otieno, Gloria; Gebrezgabher, Solomie A.
Open Access