Nairobi trade fair kicks off with mixed expectations

NAIROBI, KENYA: Farmers, institutions and organisations are leaving nothing to chance in this year's Nairobi International Trade Fair (NITF).
The dairy, pigs, goats, sheep, chicken and farming section however attracted more visitors as they lined up to be educated on the different farming and animal rearing methods.
Different cow exhibitors including Agricultural Development Corporation showcased a range of their breeds including Friesians to Aryshires.
The trade fair also created an opportunity for farmers to sell their produce including cow feeds, seedlings and organic fertilizers.
"Participants here are serious farmers who want to be educated on the different farming methods. We have had a lot of purchases on our organic fertilizers after seeing how healthy our crops are," said Edward Kusewa, a farmer displaying different varieties of huge cabbages.

 

The highlight of the day was when Nairobi governor Dr Evans Kidero visited the different exhibition stands before presenting awards to some of the winners in the different categories.

Kidero noted that aside from the trade fair providing agricultural information it also creates market access and buyer to seller contact.

He added that the focus was on agriculture because of its major stake in the economy of the country.

"Primarily Kenya is an agricultural country; a higher percentage of our economy is agriculturally based so it's the easiest place to start to expand our economic productivity base," pointed out Kidero.

The New Kenya Cooperative Creameries bagged the best local manufacturer services of consumable products as they showcased over 20 different range of products.

KCC head of cooperate affairs Stacey Too said being the leading dairy processor is owed to their dedication to quality and affordable products to the consumers.

"We meet all the quality standards and we have a wide range of products that are affordable to everyone. We provide diversity," said Too.

She added that they were confident that they had reclaimed the top position in the dairy market share standing at 30 per cent with plans to go higher.

This year's new exhibitors included Bidco Africa Ltd, East Africa Exchange, Illuminum Greenhouses, Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Ltd, Suraya Property Group, City Engineering Works Limited and Kenya Maritime Authority Ltd

The number of foreign exhibitors was 93 up from 89 last year drawn from Uganda, Tanzania, Ghana, Nigeria, Zambia, India, China, Lebanon and Philippines among others.