Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives (MoALFC)
Mission: To transform Kenya's agricultural sector into a globally competitive, sustainable, and inclusive industry that contributes to food security, economic growth, and poverty reduction.
Vision: "A thriving agricultural sector that ensures food and nutrition security, wealth creation, and sustainable resource use for improved livelihoods."
Mandate:
- Develop and implement policies and strategies for the agricultural sector
- Regulate and support agricultural production, processing, and marketing
- Promote agricultural research, extension services, and technology adoption
- Enhance livestock health and production
- Develop and manage fisheries resources
- Foster the growth of cooperatives in the agricultural sector
Structure:
The Ministry is headed by the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture, who is supported by Principal Secretaries for various departments:
- Crop Development and Agricultural Research
- Livestock Development
- Fisheries, Aquaculture, and the Blue Economy
- Cooperatives
- Agricultural Development Corporation
- Agriculture and Food Authority
Key Programs and Initiatives:
- Agricultural Sector Development Strategy (ASDS): A long-term plan to transform the agricultural sector through increased productivity, value addition, and market linkages.
- Big Four Agenda: Food Security and Nutrition: A national initiative to enhance food production and ensure accessibility and affordability of nutritious foods.
- National Agricultural and Rural Inclusive Growth Project (NARIGP): A World Bank-funded project that supports smallholder farmers through farm inputs, extension services, and market linkages.
- Livestock Master Plan 2020-2030: A strategic plan to develop the livestock sector and increase productivity.
- Fisheries and Aquaculture Development Plan 2018-2023: A roadmap for the sustainable development of the fisheries and aquaculture industry.
Key Responsibilities:
- Regulate the importation and exportation of agricultural products
- Enforce standards and regulations for food safety and quality
- Provide extension services to farmers
- Promote agricultural diversification and value addition
- Facilitate access to credit and financing for farmers
- Support the development of agricultural infrastructure
Agriculture in Kenya:
Agriculture is the backbone of Kenya's economy, contributing significantly to GDP and employment. Key agricultural products include tea, coffee, maize, wheat, pyrethrum, dairy products, beef, and horticulture. Kenya is also a major producer of fisheries products, with the Lake Victoria region being a hub for fish farming.