KNCCI Challenges Scientists to Turn Research Into Profitable Agribusiness Solutions

Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) President Dr. Erick Rutto has challenged Kenya's scientific community to accelerate the commercialization of research and innovation, saying the country's economic growth depends on transforming scientific breakthroughs into practical and market-driven solutions.

Speaking as the Chief Guest during the KALRO Scientific Conference and Innovation Expo 2026, Dr. Rutto reaffirmed KNCCI's commitment to supporting researchers through market linkages, business networks, investment opportunities, and policy advocacy aimed at accelerating the adoption of homegrown technologies.

The conference, held under the theme “Innovations for Sustainable Agri-food Systems, Climate Change Resilience and Improved Livelihoods,” brought together scientists, policymakers, agribusiness stakeholders, and development partners to showcase innovations designed to strengthen Kenya's agricultural sector.

Dr. Rutto emphasized that innovation and automation remain critical tools in transforming agriculture, noting that technological advancements can significantly boost productivity, improve crop and livestock yields, and enhance resilience against the growing impacts of climate change.

He observed that while agriculture remains one of Kenya's most important economic pillars, there is still a significant gap between scientific research, policy formulation, and practical implementation.

"The scientific community has a critical role to play in informing policy and advocacy efforts. Research findings should guide decisions that unlock the full potential of the agricultural sector and improve livelihoods for millions of Kenyans," he said.

The KNCCI President cited Aflasafe, an innovative solution developed by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) to combat aflatoxin contamination, as a prime example of how research can address real-world challenges affecting farmers and food security.

He urged researchers to continue developing innovative technologies that can help farmers adapt to changing climatic conditions, improve food production, and increase incomes across agricultural value chains.

Dr. Rutto further pledged KNCCI's support in helping commercialize research outputs by connecting innovators to local and international markets, strategic investors, and business partnerships capable of scaling up promising technologies.

Following the conference, Dr. Rutto toured the KALRO Data Centre alongside KALRO Chairman Dr. Thuo Mathenge and Director General Dr. Patrick K. Ketiem.

The delegation received a briefing on the Kenya Agriculture Observatory Platform (KAOP), a cutting-edge real-time monitoring and digital advisory system that provides farmers and policymakers with hyper-local weather forecasts, soil health information, and market intelligence down to the ward level.

The platform is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing data-driven decision-making, strengthening climate resilience, and improving agricultural productivity across the country.

Stakeholders at the conference expressed optimism that stronger collaboration between researchers, the private sector, and policymakers will accelerate the uptake of innovative technologies and position Kenya as a leader in sustainable agricultural transformation in Africa.