The workshop brought together bioentrepreneurs from across the country, identified through an earlier mapping exercise conducted in partnership with the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA). The process began with a survey, followed by a verification and “ground-truthing” exercise. This involved visiting businesses to confirm their operations, validate products and production processes, and better understand their markets, raw material availability, challenges and readiness for new opportunities and collaborations with Swedish partners.  

Kenya’s bioeconomy holds enormous potential to create value from natural resources, foster economic transformation, strengthen food and energy security, generate employment and promote sustainable practices. 

Following in the footsteps of the East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO), Kenya is now embarking on its own journey to develop a national bioeconomy strategy. This effort will build on existing frameworks such as the Green Economy Strategy and Implementation Plan. 

The workshop aimed to formulate strategic roadmaps for priority bioeconomy clusters as part of a business-to-business matchmaking initiative with Swedish enterprises – the core objective of the ABDK project. Entrepreneurs were grouped into four clusters:  

• Value addition to primary produce and circular food systems 

• Bio-based agricultural inputs 

• Bio-based industrial development 

• Sustainable bioenergy 

Speaking on behalf of the Embassy of Sweden, Mbenga Mary, program manager for environment and climate change, noted that the bioeconomy is more than just resources on a map – it is about turning scientific research into real-world opportunities. She acknowledged SEI’s work in providing evidence through research to build a robust bioeconomy in Kenya and encouraged bioentrepreneurs to use technology and innovations in their businesses

A research-intensive sector 

In his presentation, SEI Research Fellow Alphayo Lutta emphasized that bioeconomy is knowledge-intensive requiring extensive research. He applauded the entrepreneurs for their efforts to create and innovate viable products.

Lutta cited an example of a bioentrepreneur, Martin Solano of Super Moringa Supplies, who shared during the mapping exercise how he travelled from Vihiga County to Kiambu County to acquire the knowledge and skills needed to produce his products. 

He also pointed out that, despite such inspiring stories, the sector still faces significant challenges. Drawing on data from the United States Department of Agriculture, he noted that Kenya has produced an average of 2.44 million metric tons (MT) of green tea over the past six years, with 440.5 MT being exported annually. Of the remaining tea that is processed, 94% is exported, while only 6% is consumed domestically. 

Bioentrepreneurs also encounter lengthy certification and registration processes, policy gaps and inadequate infrastructure – barriers that continue to hinder growth.