Proparco has signed an agreement with Equity Group, granting €1 million in technical assistance to the Equity Group Foundation (EGF) to implement the Climate Resilient Agri-Food Systems (CRAFS) project. This initiative aims to help Kenyan smallholder farmers transition to Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA), ensuring sustainable practices that boost productivity while reducing agricultural emissions.
The signing ceremony took place today in Nairobi, attended by H.E. Arnaud Suquet, French Ambassador to Kenya, Jean Guyonnet-Dupérat, Proparco’s Regional Director for East Africa, and Dr. James Mwangi, CEO of Equity Group.
Agriculture: The Backbone of Kenya’s Economy
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Kenya’s economy, contributing 30% to the GDP and 45% of export earnings. It supports nearly 75% of rural livelihoods and provides employment for over 70% of the rural workforce, with 60% being women and youth. However, climate change presents increasing challenges for smallholder farmers, necessitating the adoption of sustainable, climate-resilient practices to ensure food security and economic stability.
Equity Group Foundation’s Commitment to Climate-Smart Agriculture
Founded in 2008, Equity Group Foundation (EGF) is the social arm of Equity Group Holdings, focusing on transformative development programs across Africa. The newly funded CRAFS project will train farmers in Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA), providing them with financial access, technical knowledge, and sustainable farming solutions.
Key focus areas include:
- Training and sensitization of farmers on CSA best practices.
- Access to finance for sustainable agricultural investments.
- Knowledge exchange on renewable energy, water harvesting, and waste-to-energy solutions.
- Linkages to suppliers and value chain actors for market access.
The project targets 15,000 farmers annually engaged in both livestock and crop production. A dedicated field team will be deployed to facilitate direct implementation.
A Strong Partnership for a Sustainable Future
H.E. Arnaud Suquet, French Ambassador to Kenya, emphasized France’s commitment to supporting Kenyan SMEs and entrepreneurship through collaborations such as this:
“In a country where agriculture is critical for employment, food security, and economic stability, this partnership between Proparco and EGF is key. It will allow local businesses to thrive and grassroots initiatives to emerge in sectors beyond agriculture, including health, education, fintech, and renewable energy. I commend Dr. James Mwangi and Equity Group for our fruitful cooperation.”
Proparco’s Jean Guyonnet-Dupérat reaffirmed the organization’s confidence in Equity Group’s leadership in agricultural transformation:
“Proparco is pleased to strengthen its partnership with Equity Group, a key player in Africa’s financial sector. Through its Foundation, Equity is driving impactful change, supporting Kenyan farmers and innovators. We are proud to provide technical support for this mission.”
Equity Group’s Vision for Smallholder Farmers
Equity Group Managing Director and CEO, Dr. James Mwangi, highlighted the transformative impact of the partnership:
“This collaboration with Proparco is more than just an agreement—it’s about empowering farmers, families, and communities to thrive in a changing world. By embracing Climate-Smart Agriculture, smallholder farmers will boost productivity, enhance resilience against climate shocks, and contribute to a sustainable future.”
With climate change threats increasing, Equity Group aims to provide farmers with the tools and financial support needed to mitigate agricultural risks and ensure long-term prosperity.
Conclusion
The €1 million technical assistance from Proparco marks a significant step toward climate resilience in Kenya’s agricultural sector. By equipping smallholder farmers with sustainable practices and financial solutions, Equity Group Foundation’s CRAFS project is set to drive lasting economic and environmental benefits, ensuring Kenya’s agriculture remains a pillar of growth and food security.
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