Nairobi hosts China-Africa Agri-Tech and Industrial Cooperation Forum

Agricultural technology companies, investors and policymakers gathered in Nairobi, Kenya, on Tuesday for the 2026 China-Africa Agri-Tech Industrial Cooperation Forum, showcasing innovations aimed at boosting productivity, strengthening food security and accelerating agricultural modernisation across Africa.

The forum brought together Chinese and African stakeholders seeking to deepen cooperation in areas ranging from farm mechanisation and livestock health to irrigation and agricultural investment, as countries across the continent look for solutions to improve yields and build more resilient food systems.

Among the technologies on display were tractors tailored to African farming conditions, livestock vaccines that enhance animal health and productivity, and low-cost solar-powered irrigation systems designed to expand water access for smallholder farmers.

Organisers said the forum was intended to serve as a platform for technology transfer, investment partnerships and policy dialogue, connecting innovators and manufacturers with governments, businesses and farmers across the continent.

Among the technologies on display were low-cost solar-powered irrigation systems designed to help smallholder farmers overcome one of agriculture's biggest challenges: access to reliable and affordable water.

Edgar Obonyo, a representative of solar irrigation company SunCulture, said financing models are helping lower barriers to the adoption of agricultural technologies among millions of smallholder farmers across Africa.

He said forums such as the China-Africa Agri-Tech Industrial Cooperation Forum provide an important platform for companies to showcase technologies and connect with potential customers and partners.

Agricultural investor and consultant Clive Wafukho said such events play a critical role in helping innovators identify market opportunities and build partnerships across the agricultural value chain.

He added that collaboration between governments, private investors and local communities is essential to ensuring that technologies are adapted to local conditions and respond to the practical needs of farmers.

The event builds on longstanding efforts to strengthen China-Africa agricultural cooperation through research partnerships, technology exchange and investment, as both sides seek to enhance food security and unlock the potential of Africa's agricultural sector.