Kenya has launched the World Agriculture Forum (WAF) Country Council to accelerate the transformation of its agriculture sector, aiming to boost productivity, strengthen climate resilience, and connect global innovation with local farming systems.

Nairobi, Kenya, 30 April 2026:  Kenya has officially launched the World Agriculture Forum (WAF) Country Council, marking a significant step in positioning the Country as a continental leader in agricultural innovation powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and bioengineering.

Under the theme “The Convergence of Intelligence: Strategic Investments in AI and Bioengineering for a Resilient Agricultural Future,” the launch, held at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) Auditorium in Nairobi, brought together senior government officials, global agriculture leaders, researchers, investors and agribusiness executives to explore how converging technologies can unlock productivity, resilience, and inclusive growth across Kenya’s food systems.

Delegates pose for a group photo during the launch of the World Agriculture Forum Kenya Country Council.

With climate change disrupting planting seasons, trade barriers constricting supply chains, and a rapidly growing population demanding more food, Kenya faces an urgent need to scale both the quality and quantity of agricultural production. The WAF Kenya Country Council has been launched to bridge the gap between policy ambition and on-farm reality, creating integrated investment pipelines that pair digital intelligence with biological innovation.

Driving a New Era of Agricultural Growth

Speaking during the launch on behalf of the Prime Cabinet Secretary, Professor Shaukat Principal Secretary State Department for Science, Research and Innovation in the Prime Cabinet Secretary’s Office, underscored the strategic importance of the initiative, stating:

Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak, Principal Secretary State Department for Science, Research and Innovation in the office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary, delivering the keynote address on behalf of Prime Cabinet Secretary Hon. Musalia Mudavadi during the launch of the World Agriculture Forum Kenya Country Council.

“As we formally launch the Kenya Country Council of the World Agriculture Forum, we are doing more than inaugurating another institution. We are declaring that Kenya is ready to lead the ‘Convergence Decade’. The future lies in the synergy between Digital Intelligence and Biological Intelligence. AI can tell a farmer when to plant, but bioengineering gives that farmer the seed that will survive regardless of the season.”

He added that the initiative aligns with Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), the AI Strategy 2025–2030, and Continental frameworks such as CAADP and Agenda 2063, with a clear focus on delivering measurable outcomes including increased yields, improved farmer incomes, and socio-economic transformation.

A Platform for Action, Not Just Dialogue

WAF Global Executive Director Dr. M.J. Khan emphasized that the Forum will serve as a catalyst for shaping the future of global food systems.

“WAF is committed to providing thought leadership and setting the agenda for food systems growth in the face of global challenges such as trade barriers, climate change, and population pressures. Data is the new fertilizer, and through our global councils, we aim to harness it to drive smarter, more resilient agricultural systems,” said Dr. Khan.

The WAF platform will operationalize its mission through flagship initiatives including the Global Soil Health Coalition, Global Digital Agriculture Council, Global Sustainability Council, and the Trade and Food Security Council.

ILRI Director General Prof. Appolinaire Djikeng addresses delegates attending the launch of the World Agriculture Forum Kenya Country Council.

Strengthening Research and Local Innovation

Welcoming delegates to ILRI, Director General Prof. Appolinaire Djikeng highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration in transforming agriculture.

“This partnership reflects over a year of collaboration between WAF and ILRI focused on advancing food security, improving agricultural practices, and reducing poverty. The launch of the Kenya Country Council strengthens our shared commitment to translating science and innovation into real impact for farmers,” he said.

Unlocking Value for Farmers Through Technology

Dr Oscar EV Magenya, the WAF Kenya Country Director, added: “The launch of the WAF Kenya Country Council marks a shift from conversation to implementation—bringing together government, investors and researchers to deliver real solutions for farmers. This is not just another council, but a mechanism to turn global best practices into local impact, driving higher productivity, improving farmer incomes and building a more resilient, technology-powered food system.”

The launch also featured insights from industry leaders on how digital tools and innovation are already transforming farming on the ground.

Timothy Wanjohi, CEO of Market Farm Ltd, emphasized the role of technology in improving farmer outcomes:

“We are seeing first-hand how digital platforms, AI-driven advisories, and solar-powered solutions can reduce post-harvest losses, improve market access, and increase profitability for farmers. The opportunity now is to scale these solutions and ensure they reach every farmer who needs them.”

A Clear Roadmap for Impact

The WAF Kenya Country Council will focus on building integrated pipelines for agricultural innovation, fostering public-private partnerships and engaging county governments as key drivers of implementation.

By 2028, the Council aims to establish a proven, scalable model that connects global investors to local agricultural innovation, accelerates adoption of AI and bioengineering solutions, and strengthens Kenya’s position as a hub for agri-tech convergence.

The first County Council meeting will be held within 30 days to set up technical working groups, focusing on aligning regulations, developing financing models, and creating safeguards to protect farmers while making AI easier to understand and use.

Senator George Akume, CON, represents a rare breed of Nigerian politician. In a political culture often characterised by impatience, self-interest, and inconsistency, he has distinguished himself through patience, loyalty, and an enduring commitment to teamwork.

I have worked closely with him and witnessed his steady rise since 1999, when he became Governor of Benue State. From there, he went on to serve as Senator, Minister of the Federal Republic, and now Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF). His trajectory has been defined not by haste, but by discipline and a remarkable ability to work within the system.

These qualities have been severely tested in recent times, particularly in his relationship with Governor Hyacinth Alia. Governor Alia entered the political arena with significant backing despite having limited political experience, modest resources, and no established structure to contend with seasoned figures such as Barnabas Gemade and Steven Lawani. Against these odds, he emerged victorious.

However, from the moment he assumed office, his relationship with Senator Akume deteriorated without any clear provocation. What began as a strained engagement has since evolved into a persistent political rift.

When discussions later emerged about a potential second term for the governor, many of us close to Senator Akume were understandably concerned by what appeared to be the position of the party’s national leadership. Yet, true to his nature, Akume remained calm and aligned himself with the party, even where the circumstances were personally unfavourable.

This included accepting the controversial dissolution of the duly elected state party leadership and the installation of a caretaker committee—decisions he embraced in the interest of party unity. More notably, when he conveyed the directive that political office holders, including the governor, should be returned unopposed, he did so with restraint, placing party cohesion above personal considerations.

At a gathering in Makurdi, he stated:

“All those elected on the platform of the APC, from the State Assembly to the National Assembly, are expected to return automatically… and of course, the Governor is also expected to be returned.”

That position, however, was publicly rejected by Governor Alia, who insisted there would be no automatic tickets, citing the stance of the President and the party’s national leadership. In effect, this signalled a willingness to proceed without regard for the political structure that facilitated his emergence.

For many of us, that moment was decisive.

Senator Akume, despite what can only be described as sustained political provocation, has remained composed—much like the biblical Job—accepting both favourable and difficult circumstances within the party framework.

But this is no longer about personalities.

It is about the survival of political order and internal democracy within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State.

There is a dangerous assumption at play—that power can be consolidated through imposition, that party structures can be ignored, and that those who built the system can be sidelined without consequence. That assumption is fundamentally flawed.

Those of us who have stood with Senator Akume have exercised restraint out of respect for his disposition. But restraint must not be mistaken for weakness.

The time has come for a necessary shift.

Our leader, Senator George Akume, must now allow his supporters—and indeed all party members—to fully exercise their political rights. Let there be open contest. Let aspirants emerge freely, without intimidation or artificial barriers. Let the people of Benue State decide.

Anything short of this will not only fracture the party; it will erode its credibility beyond repair.

And let no one be under any illusion: if the process is manipulated, if candidates are imposed, if the will of the people is subverted, it will mark the beginning of the end for the APC in Benue State.

As one who has followed Nigerian politics since the 1970s, I say this without hesitation: no political party survives sustained injustice against its own members.

The warning signs are already clear. What happens next will determine whether the party corrects itself—or collapses under the weight of its own contradictions.

A Benue APC chosen by the people, not imposed from above, will not only survive—it will endure and dominate.

Infinix has officially launched the NOTE 60 Ultra in Nigeria, reinforcing its strategic push into the premium smartphone segment through a series of high-impact partnerships spanning design, technology, and retail. The launch event brought together key stakeholders, industry leaders, media, and consumers to experience the device firsthand, highlighting the brand’s commitment to delivering world-class innovation tailored to the Nigerian market.

The Infinix NOTE 60 Ultra on display at its official launch event in Nigeria

Providing a unique perspective on the device’s design, Crank, Head of Auto at 234 Drive, highlighted the supercar-inspired elements that define the NOTE 60 Ultra. Drawing parallels between high-performance automobiles and the smartphone, he pointed to the sleek unibody structure, aerodynamic finish, and precision detailing as key features that echo the craftsmanship of luxury vehicles. He noted that the collaboration behind the device reflects a growing convergence between automotive design principles and consumer technology, resulting in a product that is as much about aesthetics and emotion as it is about performance.

Retail partners also played a central role at the event, with the CEOs SLOT Systems and Harmony Stores present to show their support for the launch. In their remarks, they spoke about the increasing demand within the Nigerian market for devices that combine power, durability, and premium design. They expressed strong confidence in the NOTE 60 Ultra’s market potential, citing its standout features including the Satellite Call and Messaging capability, 200MP camera with Samsung imaging system, 7000 mAh battery, and overall build quality as key factors that will resonate with consumers. They also reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the product is readily available across their retail channels, making it easier for customers nationwide to access the device.

Head of Auto, 234Drive, speaking on the Infinix Note 60 Ultra Supercar DNA

Adding to the strategic outlook, Yefui Nui, Marketing Manager at Infinix Nigeria, spoke extensively about the brand’s expansion plans and long-term vision. She emphasized that the launch of the NOTE 60 Ultra represents more than just a product introduction; it signals a deliberate move to strengthen Infinix’s presence in the premium category while continuing to innovate across all segments. She highlighted ongoing investments in partnerships, product development, and customer engagement, all aimed at reinforcing Infinix’s position as a forward-thinking brand that understands and evolves with its audience. She further reiterated the company’s commitment to Nigeria as a key growth market, underscoring efforts to continuously deliver products that meet the aspirations of modern consumers.

Following this, Oluwayemisi Ode, PR Manager at Infinix Nigeria, addressed the brand’s pricing strategy, emphasizing a careful balance between premium innovation and accessibility. She noted that while the NOTE 60 Ultra introduces flagship-level features and design, it has been thoughtfully priced to remain competitive and attainable for Nigerian consumers. According to her, this approach reflects Infinix’s long-standing commitment to democratizing advanced technology, ensuring that more users can access cutting-edge experiences without compromising on quality or performance.

Shine Rosman at the Infinix Note 60 Ultra launch event

The event also attracted a vibrant mix of cultural and tech influencers, adding to the excitement around the launch. Notable personalities such as Shine Rosman, Elozonam, Saga, and Neo Akpofure were in attendance, alongside respected tech expert Izzi Boye. Their presence underscored the growing intersection between technology, lifestyle, and entertainment, reflecting the NOTE 60 Ultra’s positioning as a device designed for today’s dynamic and style-conscious users.

Originally unveiled at Mobile World Congress 2026, the NOTE 60 Ultra brings together a powerful combination of innovation and performance. From its 200MP imaging system and advanced zoom capabilities to satellite connectivity, fast-charging technology, and a long-lasting battery, the device is engineered to deliver a comprehensive flagship experience.

With the NOTE 60 Ultra now available at the Infinix Flagship Store in Abuja, and across SLOT, Pointek, Harmony Stores, 3CHUB, Royalline nationwide, Infinix is setting a new tone for its brand in Nigeria one that confidently bridges accessibility with premium aspiration, while continuing to push the boundaries of what consumers can expect from a smartphone.