Nairobi opens first farmers’ market, to support sustainable agriculture

Nairobi has officially opened its first farmers’ market at the Rosslyn Square Shopping Center, marking an important step toward promoting sustainable farming in Kenya and beyond.

The market, which was opened on January 25th, is part of the Mediterranean and African Markets Initiative (MAMI-Farmers Markets), which is funded by Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. It is run by CIHEAM Bari in partnership with the World Farmers Markets Coalition and Coldiretti’s Campagna Amica Foundation, with support from the Italian Embassy in Kenya.

The initiative aims to create a network of farmers’ markets connecting Africa and the Mediterranean, making it easier for farmers to sell directly to consumers.

“The opening of the Nairobi Farmers Market is the start of an exciting journey to improve the lives of farmers and promote sustainable living,” said Carmelo Troccoli, Director of the Campagna Amica Foundation and General Director of the World Farmers Markets Coalition. “This is just the first step in a project that will expand to other cities in Kenya and beyond, helping to grow sustainable agriculture in the region.”

Inspired by Italy’s Campagna Amica model, the Nairobi Farmers Market will offer fresh, high-quality local products directly from farmers to customers. It will operate every Saturday at Rosslyn Square, where over 40 local farmers will sell items such as fruits, vegetables, bread, honey, meat, tea, nuts, pasta, coffee, flowers, and handmade crafts.

Dominga Cotarella, President of Terranostra, emphasized the value of sharing European farming knowledge to make agriculture more competitive and resilient. “We aim to create networks that support sustainable farming and help it adapt to future challenges,” she said.

The market’s opening also saw the launch of the Regional Coalition of Farmers Markets (RECOF), a new organization formed through the efforts of the Campagna Amica Foundation and the Kenya National Farmers Federation (KENAF). RECOF will ensure that local farmers are included and the market runs smoothly.

Dennis Andaye, CEO of RECOF, pointed out the importance of short supply chains that connect farmers directly with customers. “This project not only gives consumers access to fresh, high-quality, and sustainable products but also helps grow local communities,” he said.

The Nairobi launch follows the success of the initiative’s first market in Alexandria, Egypt, earlier this year. New markets are planned for Lebanon and Tunisia, to expand the network and promote sustainability across the region. The project aims to build a stronger link between farmers and consumers, creating a more sustainable agricultural supply chain.