About TechnoServe

TechnoServe is an international nonprofit that works to reduce poverty by applying business solutions. Instead of relying on aid or subsidies, it partners with farmers, entrepreneurs, and businesses to improve skills, strengthen value chains, and expand market access. Globally, TechnoServe operates in more than 20 countries, including Kenya.

Presence in Kenya

TechnoServe has been active in Kenya since 1973. Its country office is in Nairobi, and the organization focuses on tackling issues such as food insecurity, low farmer incomes, climate challenges, and limited access to markets. The approach is market-driven—helping people and businesses develop sustainable, profitable practices.

Key Programs and Initiatives

Project Nurture – A collaboration with partners to help small-scale mango and passion fruit farmers increase productivity and incomes.

Nespresso AAA Sustainable Quality Program – Works with coffee farmers to improve quality, climate resilience, and market access.

Smart Duka – Supports small shopkeepers in Nairobi with business skills and tools to improve profitability, with a strong focus on women entrepreneurs.

Feed the Future / Kenya Food Systems Activity – Strengthens agricultural value chains, enhances nutrition, and builds resilience in food-insecure counties.

NutriSave – Reduces food loss and waste, while improving access to nutritious foods in low-income communities.

Kenya Market Assistance Program – Helps farmers and businesses connect with better markets and adopt sustainable practices.

Connected Farmer Alliance – Uses mobile technology to improve information sharing and services for smallholder farmers.

Impact and Approach

Market-led development: Builds long-term solutions instead of dependency on aid.

Regenerative agriculture: Promotes practices that sustain soil health, biodiversity, and resilience.

Nutrition and inclusion: Ensures women and youth are meaningfully included in programs.

Innovation and data: Uses research, prototyping, and evidence to guide scaling.

Partnerships: Works with governments, donors, and private companies to maximize impact.

Organizational Strength

TechnoServe Kenya has local teams managing field projects, research, and partnerships. Most of its staff are drawn from Kenya and other African countries, ensuring programs are grounded in local realities. The office works closely with county governments, ministries, business associations, and private sector partners.

Challenges

Despite its successes, TechnoServe Kenya faces several challenges:

Climate shocks like droughts and unpredictable rainfall.

Market fluctuations that affect farmer incomes.

Limited capacity and resources for small businesses.

Ensuring sustainability of programs after donor funding ends.

Addressing gender gaps and reaching marginalized communities.

Regulatory and policy hurdles in food and agricultural sectors.

Supply chain issues, especially with perishable goods.