Where We Work Kenya
Growing Opportunity in Kenya
Across Kenya, smallholder farmers form the backbone of the agricultural economy, producing the majority (65-70%) of the country’s food while supporting their families and communities. Yet many face barriers to information, financing, and markets that limit their potential. Opportunity International AgFinance is working alongside Kenyan farmers to break down those barriers through innovative partnerships, training, and access to financial tools. Our goal is simple: to help farmers grow more, earn more, and build greater resilience for the future.
Mshauri
One of the most exciting innovations in Kenya has been the launch of Mshauri, a farmer advisory bot created in partnership with Safaricom’s DigiFarm platform. Designed by Opportunity International, Mshauri uses generative AI to deliver quick, authoritative responses to farmers’ questions: everything from diagnosing crop issues to learning new planting techniques.
Accessible through WhatsApp, the bot allows farmers to type questions, send voice notes, or even share images of crops. It responds in both English and Swahili, making it widely accessible. Farmers must consent to data protection guidelines before using the service, ensuring trust and transparency.
A screenshot from the Mshauri app.
So far, the pilot has focused on the potato value chain, reaching over 1,000 farmers. Early results are promising:
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47% of farmers applied the advice they received directly on their farms.
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67% reported greater confidence in making farming decisions.
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Nearly every farmer expressed a desire to keep using Mshauri.
For many farmers, this is the first time they have had immediate, reliable, and personalized access to agricultural expertise. The combination of accessibility, trust, and relevant content is proving transformational.
Building on this success, plans are already in place to expand Mshauri beyond potatoes into additional value chains, while also strengthening the AI’s capabilities. By scaling the service, we can reach thousands more farmers with real-time guidance that helps them adapt, improve yields, and stabilize incomes.
Clients interacting with the AI tool, Mshauri.
The early success of Mshauri highlights the potential of technology to transform farming in Kenya and for smallholder farmers across the continent. When combined with trusted local training and financial services, digital tools can help farmers make better decisions, reduce risk, and build thriving businesses.
Opportunity International AgFinance is proud to stand alongside Kenyan farmers as they lead the way in adopting new practices to grow more and earn more.