KALRO Innovation Expo Set to Bring Scientists, Farmers and Industry Together for Major Agriculture Summit

Kenya’s agricultural research community is set to converge in Nairobi next week as the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO) hosts its second Scientific Conference and Innovation Expo, an event expected to showcase cutting-edge technologies aimed at transforming the country’s agri-food systems.

The five-day conference, scheduled for June 15 to 19 at KALRO Headquarters in Loresho, will bring together researchers, policymakers, farmers, agribusiness firms, development partners and innovators to discuss practical solutions for climate resilience, food security and sustainable livelihoods. The event will adopt a hybrid format, allowing both physical and virtual participation.

Organisers say the conference will focus on the theme “Innovating Towards Resilient Agri-food Systems for Climate Action, Food Security and Sustainable Livelihoods,” reflecting the growing need for science-driven approaches to address the challenges facing agriculture in Kenya and across the region.

In addition to scientific presentations, the Innovation Expo will provide a platform for exhibitors to demonstrate new farming technologies, improved crop varieties, digital agriculture solutions, livestock innovations and value addition technologies. Business-to-business engagements and networking sessions are also expected to create partnerships between researchers, investors and private sector players.

KALRO has indicated that the exhibition segment will be open to the public for the first two days, giving farmers and other stakeholders an opportunity to interact directly with scientists and explore technologies designed to improve productivity and climate resilience. The organisation has encouraged farmers, youth innovators and agribusiness entrepreneurs to attend and learn about emerging opportunities within the agricultural sector.

The conference continues KALRO’s long-standing role in promoting agricultural research and technology transfer in Kenya. Over the years, the institution has developed improved crop varieties, livestock breeds and management practices aimed at boosting food production while helping farmers adapt to changing climatic conditions.

Agriculture remains one of Kenya’s leading economic sectors, employing a significant share of the workforce and contributing substantially to export earnings and national food security. Experts increasingly view research, innovation and stronger collaboration between public institutions and private enterprises as critical to building resilient farming systems capable of meeting future demand.

As preparations enter the final stages, expectations are high that the conference and innovation expo will generate new partnerships, promote knowledge exchange and accelerate the adoption of practical technologies that can strengthen Kenya’s agricultural transformation agenda while supporting farmers’ livelihoods across the country.