ICCF 2025 to spotlight expanding market opportunities for contract farmers

KENYA – The International Conference on Contract Farming (ICCF) will return to Nairobi on November 18 and 19, 2025, building on the success of its inaugural edition last year.

Organizers expect hundreds of farmers, agribusinesses, policymakers, and industry experts to gather under the theme “Exploring Market Opportunities in Contract Farming: Understanding Market Demands and Creating Linkages.”

The first ICCF in November 2024 attracted more than 500 participants and sparked dialogue on how contract farming can improve farmer incomes, strengthen agribusiness ties, and promote sustainable practices.

“The inaugural event confirmed the appetite for serious conversations on market-driven agriculture,” said conference chairperson Dr. Miriam Ouma. “This year, we want to move the conversation further by connecting farmers directly to buyers and exploring both local and international markets.”

The 2025 edition will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, spotlight sessions, B2B matchmaking, and a marketplace designed to help farmers strike direct deals with buyers and investors.

According to organizers, inclusivity will also be central, with deliberate efforts to involve women, youth, and people with special needs.

Main discussions and goals

Participants will examine how digital platforms, AI, and cold storage can reduce post-harvest losses and widen access to markets. Experts will also discuss trade regulations, ethical sourcing, insurance solutions, and emerging consumer preferences such as organic farming.

“Farmers need to understand what today’s buyers want and how to meet those standards,” noted agribusiness consultant James Mwangi.

Expected outcomes include stronger market connections, more tangible business deals, and concrete policy recommendations. Farmers will also gain insights into compliance with certifications and trade standards, which can increase competitiveness in export markets.

Regional growth stories

Several African countries have already seen success through contract farming models. In Kenya, more than half of tea and sugar output comes through contracts, while Zambia records full coverage for crops like paprika, tobacco, and cotton.

Nigeria’s rice, cassava, and poultry sectors are growing through public-private partnerships. These examples highlight the potential for farmers across the region to secure stable incomes and reduce market risks.

Research shows that farmers under contract arrangements in sectors such as cashew and groundnuts have achieved income gains of 20 to 40 percent, particularly in West Africa. Many schemes also provide seeds, fertilizers, training, and even credit, reducing upfront costs and raising yields.

Governments are exploring contract enforcement laws and insurance systems to protect both farmers and buyers from defaults. At the same time, ICCF is helping create a continental platform for dialogue on technology adoption, inclusive participation, and long-term competitiveness.

“Contract farming is not just about transactions,” Dr. Ouma explained. “It is about building trust, providing stability, and giving smallholders the confidence to grow with the market.”

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