The Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture, Hon. Mithika has stated that his ministry is determined to expand the horticultural sector and improve Kenya’s earnings from horticulture products. CS Mithika and the Ministry is currently taking part in the Horticultural Expo 2023 Doha whose theme is “Green Desert, Better Environment”.

The exhibition, which is the first ever in the Middle East and North Africa, aims to inspire, encourage and benefit participating countries with innovative solutions to tackle environmental challenges including desertification and climate change.

The Horticultural industry plays a pivotal role in advancement of Kenya’s agri-sector. The development of this sector necessitates a concerted effort from the government, which is actively exploring avenues for increased mechanization and the expansion of export capabilities.

Agriculture is one of the country’s major source of livelihood for many Kenyans with horticulture being one of the country’s leading subsectors. The subsector accounts for about 25% of the country’s total exports. The Kenya Kwanza is determined to reform and improve all the subsectors of the agricultural sector with the Deputy President spearheading reforms in the coffee and tea subsectors.

Currently about 90% the country’s horticultural products are consumed locally, Hon. Mithika has urged Kenyan farmers to seize the opportunity to venture into the horticultural sector as the government works to the enhance the subsector.