Proparco Sows EUR 1 M In Equity Group To Help Kenyan Farmers Go Climate-Smart
Smallholder farmers in Kenya are set to benefit from a EUR 1 M (USD 1.08 M) technical assistance grant aimed at helping them adopt sustainable farming practices and withstand the impacts of climate change.
The funding, provided by Proparco, will support the Climate Resilient Agri-Food Systems (CRAFS) project, an initiative by the Equity Group Foundation (EGF) designed to equip farmers with the knowledge, tools, and financial access needed to transition to Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA).
The agreement, signed on March 18, 2025, in Nairobi, brings together key players in Kenya’s agricultural and financial sectors. In attendance were French Ambassador to Kenya H.E. Arnaud Suquet, Proparco’s Regional Director for East Africa Jean Guyonnet-Dupérat, and Equity Group CEO Dr. James Mwangi. This partnership builds on a long-standing relationship between Proparco and Equity Group, reflecting a shared commitment to sustainable economic growth.
Kenya’s agricultural sector is the backbone of its economy, contributing 30% of GDP and 45% of export earnings while providing livelihoods for 75% of rural communities. However, climate change has made farming increasingly unpredictable, with extreme weather patterns, erratic rainfall, and soil degradation threatening productivity. Many smallholder farmers struggle to adapt, often lacking the resources, knowledge, and financial support needed to transition to sustainable methods.
The CRAFS project is designed to address these challenges head-on. Through this initiative, 15,000 farmers every year will receive hands-on training in sustainable farming techniques, access to climate-friendly financing, and support in adopting innovative solutions like water harvesting, waste-to-energy systems, and energy-efficient agricultural practices. A dedicated team will work directly with farmers, suppliers, and value chain partners to ensure these changes are implemented effectively.
For France, this partnership represents a broader commitment to supporting Kenya’s economic transformation. Ambassador Arnaud Suquet emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating: “Agriculture is central to employment, food security, and sustainability in Kenya. This collaboration between France, through Proparco, and EGF will help empower local farmers, demonstrating how impactful partnerships can drive real change in agriculture, fintech, health, and renewable energy.”
Jean Guyonnet-Dupérat, representing Proparco, highlighted the importance of working with established partners like Equity Group. “We are proud to strengthen our collaboration with Equity, a key player in Africa’s financial ecosystem. Through EGF, they are creating real impact by supporting farmers and innovators in the agricultural sector. Proparco is committed to backing initiatives that drive sustainable growth.”
For Dr James Mwangi, the initiative is a crucial step toward securing a resilient agricultural future for Kenya. “This is about empowering farmers to succeed in an unpredictable climate. By embracing Climate-Smart Agriculture, we are giving them the knowledge, financial support, and tools to increase productivity while reducing their environmental footprint. The challenges are significant, but with the right support, smallholder farmers can thrive and contribute to a more sustainable future.”
As Kenya continues to face the realities of climate change, initiatives like CRAFS are not just about survival—they are about long-term prosperity. With backing from Proparco and Equity Group, thousands of farmers will gain the skills and resources needed to adapt, ensuring food security and economic stability for the future.
