Nairobi, Kenya, March 19, 2025 (EAT) – Proparco, a subsidiary of the Agence Française de Développement Group, has formalized a significant partnership with Equity Group to bolster sustainable agriculture in Kenya. On Wednesday, a landmark agreement was signed, committing €1 million (approximately Ksh.141 million) in technical assistance from Proparco to the Equity Group Foundation (EGF). This financial support is earmarked for the implementation of the “Climate Resilient Agri-Food Systems (CRAFS)” project, an initiative designed to empower small-scale Kenyan farmers through the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices.

Equity Group Foundation, established in 2008 as the social impact arm of Equity Group Holdings, is dedicated to transforming lives and livelihoods across Africa. The CRAFS project represents a key component of EGF's high-impact development programs. By promoting climate-smart agriculture (CSA), the project aims to enhance agricultural productivity, build resilience against climate-related challenges, and reduce emissions through sustainable farming methods.

Speaking on the collaboration, French Ambassador to Kenya, Arnaud Suquet, highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership: “The collaboration between France through Proparco and EGF will be key to supporting SMEs and entrepreneurship. This project illustrates that our steadfast partnership with Equity Group will allow local businesses to thrive and grassroots initiatives to emerge in sectors such as agriculture but also health, higher education, fintech and renewable energy. I commend Dr James Mwangi and Equity Group for our fruitful cooperation.”

Jean Guyonnet-Dupérat, Proparco’s Regional Director for East Africa, emphasized the strengthened relationship with Equity Group: “Proparco is very pleased to strengthen its partnership with a long-standing client and leading player on the African continent, Equity Group. Through its Foundation, Equity participates in concrete change by supporting Kenyan actors in agriculture, from small farmers to innovators. Our technical support backs this approach, and we thank EGF for its trust!”

Dr. James Mwangi, Equity Group Managing Director and CEO, underscored the transformative potential of the initiative: “This partnership with Proparco is another milestone in a journey of people and nations. It’s about farmers, families, communities and nations gaining the knowledge and support to thrive in a changing world.” He further added, “By embracing climate-smart agriculture, we will empower farmers to increase their productivity, build resilience against climate shocks, and contribute to a more sustainable future. Smallholder farmers need support to mitigate agricultural risks, and we are committed to helping them navigate these challenges."

The CRAFS project, spearheaded by EGF in conjunction with Equity Group, will deliver comprehensive support to small-scale producers. This includes training programs, improved access to financial resources, and platforms for knowledge exchange. A dedicated field team will be responsible for on-the-ground implementation, working closely with suppliers and value chain participants to empower farmers and micro-businesses. The project aims to reach 15,000 farmers annually, focusing on those involved in livestock or crop value chains. The support provided will encompass training, sensitization, access to finance, linkage and knowledge exchange around productive use of energy, sustainable production practices, waste to energy and water harvesting and management.