This challenge is designed to foster innovation and address the key challenges facing the AgriTech4Kenya initiative. The challenge focuses on four key areas: sustainable agriculture, food security, climate change adaptation, and digital agriculture. These areas are crucial for Kenya’s agricultural sector, as they directly impact the livelihoods of millions of farmers and consumers. **Sustainable Agriculture:** This area focuses on developing and implementing sustainable farming practices that minimize environmental impact and maximize resource efficiency.
The country’s agricultural sector is plagued by issues such as inefficient irrigation systems, limited access to credit, and inadequate infrastructure. These challenges hinder the potential of Kenyan farmers to maximize their yields and contribute to national food security. The initiative aims to address these challenges by promoting sustainable agricultural practices, empowering farmers with access to financial resources, and improving infrastructure. By focusing on these key areas, the initiative seeks to create a more conducive environment for agricultural innovation and ultimately contribute to Kenya’s food security goals.
These priority areas include:
* **Sustainable intensification:** This involves increasing agricultural productivity while minimizing environmental impact. * **Climate change adaptation:** This focuses on developing strategies to help farmers and communities adapt to the effects of climate change. * **Food security:** This aims to ensure that everyone has access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food. * **Sustainable agriculture:** This encompasses practices that promote environmental sustainability and social equity. The Challenge will also provide opportunities for CGIAR scientists to collaborate with other stakeholders, including:
* **Private sector:** This includes companies involved in agricultural technology, food processing, and distribution.