Wedoany.com Report-Sept. 25, At the seventh CAC Africa Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, Brighton Kisero, a Kenyan agrochemical wholesaler, took note of a small bottle of bio-pesticide. The product stood out to him not just for its environmental benefits but also for its compatibility with Africa’s diverse soils and climates. Kisero, a 45-year-old agribusiness entrepreneur, shared his thoughts: "The efficacy and affordability of Chinese agrochemicals are impressive and could help African farmers increase their productivity."

The summit, which took place over two days, provided a major platform for the agrochemical industry, attracting thousands of visitors. It was jointly organized by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Sub-Council of Chemical Industry (CCPIT CHEM), Kenya's Pest Control Products Board (PCPB), and Egerton University. Approximately 30 exhibitors, mainly from China, showcased the latest in agro-inputs, machinery, and technologies aimed at improving food security across Africa.

Jalen Fan, deputy director of CCPIT CHEM, highlighted China's active involvement in raising agricultural productivity in Africa. This has been achieved through demonstration centers, training programs, and the promotion of improved crop varieties. Fan noted, “The conference is expected to introduce high-quality agrochemicals, bio-pesticides, and specialty fertilizers, and integrated agricultural technology solutions to the African market.”

The summit proved to be more than just a product exhibition—it served as a practical solution space for local farmers. Festus Nyongesa, a 100-acre farmer from western Kenya, found the exhibition helpful in connecting with innovators. At the booth of Hebei Xingbai Agricultural Technology Co., he discovered low-toxicity pesticides. Nyongesa said, “I have decided to purchase crop protection products from China because they are environmentally friendly and help my produce meet strict international pesticide standards.”

Esther Kasyoka, a horticultural farmer from eastern Kenya, shared her experience with Shanghai M-Win Chemicals Co. Ltd., which offered insecticides that helped her tackle persistent pest issues in her mango crops. Kasyoka explained, “I have suffered perennial crop losses over the past year as the insecticides I relied on have not been effective.”

Martha Nyokabi, a potato farmer from central Kenya, found a solution to her long-standing issue with potato blight at the booth of Qingdao Higrow Chemicals Company. Mason Zhang, international trade sales manager at Qingdao Higrow Chemicals, mentioned that their fungicides are specifically designed to prevent pathogens that threaten potato crops.

Barasa Wanyonyi, head of the registration department at PCPB, acknowledged the rising popularity of Chinese agrochemicals in Kenya. These products have not only reduced pest control costs but also helped improve farmers' incomes. Wanyonyi added, “China is also the largest single contributor to Kenya's pesticide portfolio, both for conventional and advanced products, which reflects strong technical cooperation between the two countries.”

This partnership between Chinese agrochemical companies and Kenyan farmers showcases the growing collaboration between the two nations, helping African farmers overcome persistent challenges in crop protection and boosting agricultural productivity.