Agriculture CS Calls for Positive Attitude Towards Private Investment

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has urged government officials across Kenya to embrace a pro-investment approach, stressing that hostility towards successful investors and private enterprises can harm the country’s economic growth. Speaking during a meeting with county officials, CS Kagwe highlighted the importance of creating an environment that attracts and supports business initiatives, particularly in the agricultural sector.

According to the CS, government officers have a critical role in shaping the business climate. He pointed out that negative attitudes or unfair treatment of investors can discourage new ventures, limit job creation, and slow down economic development. Kagwe emphasized that officials should view investors as partners in national development rather than as competitors or threats.

Kagwe noted that agriculture remains a key driver of Kenya’s economy, employing a large portion of the population and contributing significantly to GDP. He encouraged officials to support modern farming practices, innovation, and agribusiness projects that have the potential to increase productivity and open up new markets for Kenyan products. By doing so, he said, counties could boost local economies and improve livelihoods for residents.

The CS also addressed the challenges faced by investors in the country. He acknowledged that bureaucratic delays, inconsistent policies, and sometimes negative perceptions from local authorities can hinder investment. He called on officials to streamline processes, maintain transparency, and provide a stable and predictable environment for business operations. “An investor-friendly county is a county that attracts development, creates employment, and enhances the quality of life for its residents,” Kagwe remarked.

Kagwe further urged officials to actively engage with both local and international investors, encouraging collaboration that benefits communities and the economy at large. He stressed the importance of balancing regulation with encouragement, ensuring that businesses operate responsibly while still being able to thrive. The CS pointed out that successful private enterprises often contribute not only to tax revenues but also to social projects, training programs, and local infrastructure improvements.

County officials were reminded that promoting investment is not solely the responsibility of national government agencies. Local governments also play a critical role in shaping policies, offering incentives, and addressing challenges that investors face on the ground. Kagwe highlighted examples of counties that had successfully created investment-friendly environments, resulting in new jobs, increased agricultural output, and greater community engagement.

In his remarks, the CS encouraged officials to shift from a mindset of suspicion towards businesses to one of facilitation. He warned that negative attitudes towards successful entrepreneurs can lead to missed opportunities and slow down development. “When we discourage investors, we are also discouraging progress for our people,” Kagwe said, stressing that a welcoming attitude could attract long-term partnerships and sustainable growth.

Kagwe also spoke about the role of innovation and technology in agriculture. He encouraged counties to support projects that incorporate modern farming methods, digital solutions, and research-driven approaches. By fostering innovation, officials can help farmers and agribusinesses increase efficiency, access new markets, and add value to their products.

The Agriculture CS concluded by urging a collaborative approach between government officials and the private sector. He called for open dialogue, joint problem-solving, and continuous support for initiatives that promote economic development. He emphasized that adopting a pro-investment mindset is not only beneficial for investors but also essential for communities, as it generates employment, improves services, and strengthens local economies.

By focusing on creating an environment that welcomes and supports investment, CS Kagwe believes Kenya can achieve more sustainable economic growth, particularly in agriculture. He reminded officials that the country’s future prosperity depends on their ability to facilitate business development, encourage innovation, and maintain a positive relationship with both local and international investors.

A shift in mindset among government officials, he said, would signal to the world that Kenya is ready to be a reliable destination for investment, capable of creating opportunities and fostering inclusive development for all its citizens.