NAIROBI, Kenya
Commercial banks increased lending to Kenya’s agricultural sector by Sh53.1 billion in the year to June 2026, reflecting growing credit flows into one of the country’s key economic sectors.
Data from the Central Bank of Kenya shows that agricultural credit increased by 35.1 per cent to Sh204.2 billion during the period. The growth was significantly higher than the 10.6 per cent increase in total private-sector credit, which expanded to Sh4.29 trillion.
The increased lending comes as agriculture remains an important source of employment, household income and economic activity across the country. For banks, the expansion also represents an opportunity to grow lending in a sector traditionally considered relatively risky.
Improved farm incomes and cash flows have contributed to the increased attractiveness of agriculture to lenders, according to reporting based on CBK data.
The development could have implications for farmers and agribusinesses seeking financing for activities such as purchasing farm inputs, acquiring equipment, expanding production and improving value addition.
Kenya’s broader economy also continues to receive significant support from agriculture. The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics reported that agriculture, forestry and fishing expanded by 3.1 per cent in 2025 and accounted for more than 20 per cent of the economy.
In the photo, are Kenyan farmers working in a crop field.
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