Embu County To Access Israel Agri-tech Expertise

Farmers in Embu County are set to reap major benefits with the help of Israeli agriculture technology after an MoU between Israel and the County Government is normalized.

Israel, a world leader in agriculture under conditions with little water and high heat, will set up an agro tech incubation hub in Embu aimed at skill transfer and research on the most efficient agricultural practices.

Embu County has seen an explosion in agricultural growth, particularly in dairy farming, macadamia, and other next-generation agricultural techniques.

“New age agriculture production requires a technological solution,” Embu Governor Martin Nyaga Wambora said in a speech read on his behalf by his deputy David Kariuki.

The planned agri-tech hub is expected to conduct agricultural research of its own which includes conducting analysis on soil, weather patterns and crops that are suitable across the county.

“A big percentage of Israel’s agricultural exports, which include tomatoes and watermelon, come from areas that are very similar to Embu, this means our partnership will result to better yields and improved productivity” Israel Ambassador to Kenya Oded Joseph said during the launch of the first Israel- Embu Agri fair at the University of Embu grounds.
The Israeli envoy noted that over the years, Israeli farmers have built a reputation as a the most efficient in food production worldwide.”

“It’s quite interesting what you might be able to do with that mix of location, technology and capital for certain crops.” The ambassador noted.

He said that Israeli agricultural entrepreneurs are excited about the potential for the new alliance with Embu County.
“Israel has a history of looking at where it can forge partnerships, where it can make investments where there’s a mutual benefit,” Oded said.

“Israeli tech companies are globally acknowledged in arid farming and the application of technology to make farming profitable”. He added.

Embu County deputy governor David Kariuki said “If we bring the practical and academic knowledge and all the technology from Israel to Embu, we can all benefit from it”.

Speaking during the same event Embu County Agriculture CEC Dr. Jamlek Muturi said. “I am very excited that Embu farmers will expand the market for their produce. They will benefit financially, but beyond that, it would be fascinating to to enjoy the benefits from our agricultural produce”.

Hundreds of farmers and agricultural sector players thronged the Embu University grounds eager to learn from Israeli Agri tech companies that were exhibiting some of the latest Israeli Agricultural technologies that were on show during the one-day event.

The trade fair was graced by among others the Embu University Vice Chancellor Professor Daniel Mugendi, various members of the County Assembly of Embu and staff from the Embu Cunty commissioner.
Thirteen Israeli agri-tech companies and eight Embu agri-business institutions showcased their products and services.

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