By Samuel Ouma
Proparco and Equity Group have signed an agreement to provide €1 million in technical assistance to the Equity Group Foundation (EGF) for implementing its high-impact project, Climate Resilient Agri-Food Systems (CRAFS).
The signing ceremony, held in Nairobi, was 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.
This partnership aims to support smallholder farmers across Kenya in adopting sustainable agricultural practices that enhance productivity, build resilience to climate shocks, and reduce agricultural emissions.
The CRAFS project, implemented by EGF in collaboration with Equity Group, will provide farmers with training, financial access, and knowledge exchange opportunities to ensure the effective adoption of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices.
“In a country where agriculture is critical for employment, food security, and economic growth, this collaboration between France through Proparco and EGF will play a crucial role in empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and fostering entrepreneurship. Our partnership with Equity Group has been instrumental in supporting local businesses, and we look forward to further strengthening these ties across various sectors, including agriculture, health, fintech, and renewable energy,” said H.E. the French Ambassador to Kenya, Arnaud Suquet.
Jean Guyonnet-Dupérat, Proparco’s Regional Director for East Africa, expressed Proparco’s enthusiasm for reinforcing its collaboration with Equity Group.
“Proparco is very pleased to strengthen its partnership with a long-standing client and leading player on the African continent. Through its Foundation, Equity is making a tangible impact by supporting Kenyan farmers and agricultural innovators. Our technical support will further amplify these efforts, ensuring the long-term success of the CRAFS project.”
Equity Group Managing Director and CEO, Dr. James Mwangi, emphasized the significance of this initiative in addressing climate challenges faced by farmers.
“This partnership with Proparco marks another important step in empowering farmers, families, and communities with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive. By embracing Climate-Smart Agriculture, we will equip farmers with tools to increase their productivity, adapt to climate shocks, and contribute to a sustainable future. Smallholder farmers need targeted support to mitigate agricultural risks, and Equity Group is committed to helping them navigate these challenges.”
Agriculture remains a key driver of Kenya’s economic development, accounting for approximately 30% of its GDP and 45% of its export earnings. It sustains 75% of rural communities and employs over 70% of the rural workforce, including a significant proportion of women and youth.
The CRAFS project will target 15,000 farmers annually who are engaged in livestock or crop production. Key components of the project include training, sensitization, access to finance, and knowledge exchange on sustainable production practices, productive use of energy, waste-to-energy solutions, and water harvesting and management.
