The Ministry of Agriculture has announced new consultancy vacancies under a World Bank-funded initiative aimed at transforming Kenya’s agricultural sector. The call for consultants marks a major step in implementing the National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP), a program designed to enhance productivity, improve market access, and boost farmers’ incomes across the country.
Strengthening Kenya’s Agricultural Transformation
The announcement by the Ministry of Agriculture underscores the government’s continued commitment to modernizing Kenya’s agriculture — a sector that contributes roughly 33% to the national GDP and supports more than 70% of rural livelihoods.
Through this World Bank-supported project, the Ministry aims to address long-standing challenges facing farmers, including poor infrastructure, limited access to credit, outdated farming practices, and climate change-related risks.
According to a statement from the Ministry, the consultancy positions will focus on strengthening value chains, improving post-harvest management, enhancing digital data systems, and developing sustainable agribusiness models for smallholder farmers.
“These consultancy roles are crucial to ensuring that the World Bank-funded program delivers real value to farmers and stakeholders along the agricultural value chain,” said Dr. Paul Rono, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Crop Development and Agricultural Research.
Details of the Available Consultancy Positions
The Ministry of Agriculture is seeking both individual experts and consulting firms with proven experience in agricultural development, financial management, agribusiness, data analytics, and environmental sustainability.
Key areas of engagement include:
- Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E): Specialists to design and implement performance tracking systems for project outcomes and community impact.
- Environmental and Social Safeguards: Consultants to ensure compliance with environmental standards and promote climate-smart agricultural practices.
- Value Chain Development: Experts to identify high-potential crops and livestock value chains, and develop strategies to increase productivity and profitability.
- Procurement and Financial Management: Professionals to support transparent and efficient use of project resources.
- ICT and Data Systems: Consultants to digitize agricultural data, develop farmer registries, and enhance e-extension services.
Applicants are expected to have strong technical expertise, experience working with donor-funded programs, and a clear understanding of Kenya’s agricultural policies and rural development landscape.
World Bank’s Continued Support for Kenya’s Agriculture
The Ministry of Agriculture’s partnership with the World Bank reflects a long-standing relationship that has yielded several transformative programs in Kenya’s rural economy. The NAVCDP, which builds upon the success of earlier initiatives like the National Agricultural and Rural Inclusive Growth Project (NARIGP), seeks to strengthen 33 key value chains, including maize, dairy, horticulture, and poultry.
The World Bank has committed over KSh 25 billion to the project, which is being implemented in collaboration with county governments. The funding will go toward infrastructure development, farmer capacity building, and the establishment of agro-processing hubs to reduce post-harvest losses.
In its announcement, the Ministry of Agriculture emphasized that the consultancy opportunities are not only about technical expertise but also about contributing to Kenya’s broader economic and social transformation.
“This program is people-centered. We are looking for consultants who can bring innovation, efficiency, and passion for transforming agriculture into a competitive and sustainable sector,” added Dr. Rono.
How to Apply for the Consultancy Positions
Interested candidates and firms are invited to submit their Expressions of Interest (EOIs) through the official Ministry of Agriculture website or by visiting the State Department offices. The Ministry has published detailed Terms of Reference (TORs) for each consultancy position, outlining scope of work, duration, qualifications, and deliverables.
Applications must include a cover letter, CVs of key experts, evidence of previous assignments, and references from relevant organizations. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews and contract negotiations.
All submissions must be made by the deadline specified in the public notice — typically within 14 to 21 days from the date of the announcement.
Driving Inclusive Growth and Sustainability
By hiring skilled consultants through this World Bank-funded program, the Ministry of Agriculture aims to accelerate progress toward Kenya’s Vision 2030 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). The initiative is expected to increase agricultural productivity, reduce poverty in rural communities, and strengthen food security through innovation and capacity building.
Moreover, the Ministry has pledged to promote transparency and merit-based recruitment, ensuring that the selection process adheres to both World Bank and Government of Kenya procurement standards.
The consultancy initiative represents an opportunity for professionals to play a pivotal role in transforming Kenya’s agricultural landscape — from farm to market — while empowering farmers to compete effectively in regional and global markets.
A Step Forward for Kenya’s Food Systems
The Ministry of Agriculture’s announcement comes at a critical time when the country is facing the dual challenges of climate change and fluctuating global food prices. By integrating expert knowledge and leveraging international funding, the Ministry hopes to build resilient food systems that can withstand future shocks and ensure long-term prosperity for farming communities.
As the recruitment process unfolds, industry stakeholders are optimistic that the move will inject new energy and professionalism into the implementation of key agricultural projects.