Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has called on government officials at both national and county levels to embrace a pro-investment mindset, warning that hostility toward successful investors and private enterprises undermines Kenya’s economic growth.
Opening Remarks in Malindi
Speaking at the official opening of the Jumuia ya Kaunti za Pwani Coastal Agricultural Value Chain Revitalisation Workshop in Malindi, Kagwe emphasized that Kenya must position itself as a country that welcomes and protects enterprises to foster stability.
“Investors do not come here to earn stones. They come to make money and that is exactly why they should come,” Kagwe said, underscoring that private profits drive job creation and economic expansion.
Streamlining Investment Processes
The Cabinet Secretary urged governments to streamline approvals, remove bureaucratic bottlenecks, and provide predictable policy frameworks that de-risk long-term agricultural and industrial investments. He stressed that investor confidence is key to unlocking Kenya’s agricultural potential.
Agricultural Potential of the Coast
Highlighting the Coast region’s opportunities, Kagwe pointed to structured value chains, modern technology adoption, climate-smart practices, and public-private partnerships as transformative tools.
“This is not about projects. It is about building a durable agricultural economy for the Coast, one that is climate-resilient, youth-driven, and globally competitive,” he said.
Workshop Goals
The two-day workshop brings together county governments, farmers, private sector players, and development partners to craft actionable plans for revitalizing cash crops such as cashew nuts, coconut, sim sim, groundnuts, mangoes, as well as livestock systems.
Collaboration and Innovation
Kagwe called for frank discussions on investor support, stressing that agriculture, being a devolved function, requires strong county-national collaboration. He posed critical questions:
- How can counties actively support renewal?
- What do investors need from government?
- How can research institutions drive innovation?
- How can extension officers be strengthened to deliver knowledge directly to farmers?
Conclusion
Kagwe’s remarks highlight the importance of aligning Kenya’s agricultural sector with global competitiveness through investment-friendly policies, innovation, and collaboration. The workshop in Malindi sets the stage for a renewed focus on building resilient agricultural economies across the Coast and beyond.
