Innovations in the agricultural technology market are designed to help alleviate a variety
of different stressors that impact the quality of food on its way from the farm to the table.
Research has found that the developing world, in particular, is prone to waste and decay
in the earlier sections of the supply chain, including infrastructure and packaging. The
use of active packaging technology (AP) has been found to reduce this waste and help
more products successfully reach the market by increasing shelf life of fresh produce.
Businesses are now turning to developing countries for expansion opportunities where
AP technology would have a significant impact. One such country is Kenya. The
following report outlines the general history of Kenya, economic indicators, and an
overall market analysis that will help businesses evaluate the market for agriculture
innovation in the country and whether they should invest. This research finds that AP
products geared towards preserving fresh produce and berries should do reasonably well
in Kenya given the agricultural goods that are grown there. However, those who attempt
to enter this market should proceed with caution. Although Kenya has a variety of laws in
place that should protect foreign investors and intellectual property rights, it is unclear
whether governmental organizations have the will to truly enforce these regulations.
Furthermore, concerns exist over the physical state of infrastructure and political stability
that could negatively impact the success of a new business. That said, Kenya is deeply
reliant on the strength of its agricultural market. A considerable portion of their
population is involved in some way in agriculture, especially women. Technological
changes that could improve efficiencies in this market could present a unique opportunity
for the empowerment of women, particularly in rural communities. Additionally, the
Kenyan economy has grown tremendously in recent years and shows few signs of
stopping and has attracted a wide variety of investors. Businesses have already shown
interest in the expansion of agricultural technology in the country and have made
connections with existing growers’ groups to help strengthen networks and increase
communication. Therefore, Kenya presents a strong case for investment in AP
technology. Issues at the federal level should not completely deter investors, but rather,
should make them fully aware of the environment they are considering entering.
Investment in this case could not only mean profit, but could also have positive social and
environmental benefits that would help not only Kenyans, but the global community as
well.