NAIROBI, Kenya — Nairobi is set to host around 1,000 delegates from across the globe for the upcoming World Farmers’ Organization General Assembly, scheduled to take place from June 8 to 11, 2026 at the Safari Park Hotel.
The gathering, organised in partnership with the World Farmers’ Organization (WFO) and the Kenya National Farmers’ Federation (KENAFF), marks the first time the global assembly will be held in Kenya and only the fourth time it has been hosted on the African continent.
According to KENAFF, delegates from approximately 90 countries are expected to attend, including farmers, policymakers, private sector leaders, researchers, and development partners.
The forum aims to strengthen collaboration across agricultural value chains and drive solutions that support farmers in an increasingly complex global food system.
The assembly comes at a time when global agriculture faces mounting pressures, including climate change, rising input costs, food insecurity, and supply chain disruptions. Analysts say such forums are critical in shaping policy responses and fostering partnerships that enhance resilience and productivity.
KENAFF Chief Executive Officer Dr Mwenda Mailutha said the federation intends to use the platform to highlight initiatives focused on farmer empowerment and inclusivity, particularly for youth, women, and marginalised groups.
“We are honored to be the local host for this flagship event for the global farming fraternity,” Mailutha said.
A multi-sectoral organising committee has been established to oversee preparations, bringing together stakeholders from government, private sector and civil society.
Committee chair L. Nduati Kariuki said hosting the event positions Kenya as a key player in global agricultural dialogue and innovation.
“This is an opportunity to showcase Kenya’s agricultural potential and strengthen its role as a regional and global hub,” he noted.
KENAFF National Chairman Prof Kaburu M’Ribu said the assembly aligns with Kenya’s broader economic priorities, particularly efforts to enhance food security and agricultural transformation.
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Agriculture remains a central pillar of Kenya’s economy, contributing significantly to employment and export earnings. Recent government initiatives have focused on improving productivity, expanding value addition and strengthening climate-smart agriculture.
With a membership of about 1.4 million farmers across all 47 counties, organised into 11 regions and 42 commodity associations, KENAFF is expected to play a key role in shaping discussions and outcomes at the assembly.
The WFO General Assembly is regarded as one of the most influential platforms for farmer-led advocacy globally. Its outcomes often feed into broader international policy discussions, including those linked to food security, sustainability, and rural development.
Experts note that Africa’s growing role in global agriculture, driven by its vast arable land and youthful population, makes hosting such forums increasingly significant for shaping the future of food systems worldwide.
