Kenya has landed a USD 126.8 million (approx. KSh 16.4 billion) concessional loan from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), setting the stage for a transformative rural development programme focused on improving livelihoods and protecting the environment.
Highlights:
- Kenya signs $126.8 million concessional loan deal with IFAD.
- Funds to support a rural development and natural resource conservation programme.
- Project aims to enhance incomes and sustainability in rural communities.
Main Story:
The Kenyan government has signed a financing agreement with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), unlocking a significant USD 126.8 million concessional loan to support a fresh rural development initiative. The project will tackle poverty, environmental degradation, and low agricultural productivity across Kenya’s rural landscape.
This deal marks a strong commitment by both parties to accelerate inclusive economic growth and climate resilience in underserved areas.
The new programme is set to roll out across multiple counties, targeting smallholder farmers, pastoralists, and rural youth. It will fund activities such as sustainable land management, water conservation, agroforestry, and improved access to agricultural markets and financial services.
The goal is to not only raise household incomes but also equip communities with tools to protect and regenerate natural ecosystems that have suffered from years of neglect and climate stress.
IFAD praised Kenya’s proactive approach to linking environmental conservation with rural prosperity. The fund emphasized that this partnership aligns with global development goals — especially those focused on ending hunger, fostering economic empowerment, and combating climate change.
Kenya, which has worked with IFAD on previous agricultural initiatives, expects this programme to create long-lasting change in rural economies and natural resource governance.
With this funding boost, Kenya isn’t just investing in land and livelihoods — it’s sowing seeds for a greener, more inclusive future.
