Traders in Kenya are calling on the government to improve access to affordable credit and promote modern farming technology, saying high borrowing costs and strict lending requirements continue to limit business expansion and agricultural productivity.
The traders argue that financing remains a major challenge for businesses seeking to increase operations, purchase equipment or invest in improved production methods. They say the cost and conditions attached to available loans can make it difficult for smaller enterprises to grow.
Affordable credit is particularly important for businesses that need working capital to purchase supplies, pay operating expenses or invest in equipment. When financing is expensive or difficult to secure, traders may be forced to postpone expansion plans or operate below their potential.
The traders are also calling for increased adoption of modern farming technologies, which they believe could improve output and make agricultural enterprises more efficient. Such technologies can include improved irrigation systems, mechanised equipment and other tools suited to farmers’ production needs.
Agriculture remains an important source of livelihoods and business activity in Kenya, linking farmers to traders, transporters, processors and consumers. Improvements in productivity can therefore affect more than farm output, influencing the supply and cost of goods across the wider economy.
The traders say modern technology could help reduce operating costs, improve efficiency and strengthen the competitiveness of agricultural businesses. However, adopting new equipment and production methods often requires upfront investment, making access to suitable financing an important part of the process.
They want the government to support affordable lending and increase investment in agricultural technology so that businesses can modernise their operations. Measures that improve access to finance could also help enterprises respond to changing market conditions and build more sustainable operations.
The call comes amid wider concerns among small businesses about the resources needed to remain competitive and expand. For traders operating on tight margins, the combination of high borrowing costs and limited access to technology can make it harder to increase production or take advantage of new opportunities.
The impact of any government response will depend on whether financing becomes more accessible and technology investments reach businesses that need them. Traders say addressing both challenges is essential to unlocking economic opportunities and supporting long-term growth.
