ICCF 2025 Kicks Off in Nairobi as Global Agriculture Leaders Unite to Shape the Future of Farming
By Peace Muthoka
Nairobi’s Sarit Expo Centre came alive this morning as the International Conference on Contract Farming (ICCF 2025) opened its doors to global leaders, innovators, and farmers determined to redefine the future of agriculture. The two-day forum, running today and tomorrow, has quickly positioned Nairobi as a powerhouse of agricultural dialogue, drawing experts from across Africa and beyond.
From the moment the doors opened, the energy was unmistakable. Agripreneurs, policymakers, investors, development partners, and farmer organisations streamed into the venue, eager to explore how contract farming can unlock stable markets and strengthen food systems. Exhibitions and live demonstrations added colour and excitement, showcasing emerging technologies, climate-smart solutions, and new investment pathways reshaping the agriculture sector.
Throughout the sessions, speakers underscored the growing influence of contract farming in boosting food security and transforming value chains. They stressed that fair, predictable contracts can help farmers reduce losses, access reliable markets, and earn better incomes. This year, the conversations are especially centred on farmer empowerment, digital innovations, and agri-fintech tools that make market access and financing more inclusive.
The programme features a rich lineup of high-level panel discussions, case studies, and expert presentations on climate-smart agriculture and digital transformation. Delegates are taking a close look at how technology can help smallholder farmers adapt to climate shocks, improve yields, and benefit from structured partnerships with buyers.
One of the biggest attractions at ICCF 2025 is the dedicated Deal Room—a bustling space where stakeholders are negotiating contracts, exploring funding opportunities, and forging new partnerships. Organisers expect several deals to be sealed before the conference closes, signalling strong investor confidence in Africa’s agricultural future.
Later today, a major networking event hosted in collaboration with the Cereals Growers Association (CGA) will bring together senior industry leaders for strategic conversations aimed at boosting value-chain resilience and supporting smallholder farmers.
According to organisers, the goal of ICCF 2025 is to build powerful linkages between farmers, agripreneurs, and industry players. They believe these connections will be critical in scaling contract farming models that offer stability, enhance productivity, and secure better livelihoods across the continent.
The conference continues tomorrow with more expert panels, exhibitions, and interviews lined up for journalists covering food security, agribusiness, climate adaptation, and agricultural investment.
Sunflower Events and K254 Media Africa are encouraging all stakeholders to take advantage of ICCF 2025 and be part of the push towards sustainable, inclusive, and market-driven farming systems for Africa’s future.