Nairobi, Kenya — Kenya has been selected to host the inaugural Gulfood360 Africa/Kenya trade platform in Nairobi from May 4-6, 2027, marking a significant milestone for the continent’s horticultural sector and food economy. The announcement, made at Gulfood 2026 in Dubai, positions Kenya as Africa’s primary gateway to global food and agribusiness markets.
The expansion of Gulfood, the world’s leading food and beverage sourcing platform, into Africa comes at a pivotal time for the continent’s agricultural sector. With Africa’s food economy projected to reach $567.31 billion by 2032, the platform is expected to create unprecedented opportunities for horticultural producers, processors, and exporters across the region.
Strategic Gateway for Horticulture
Kenya’s selection as the host nation is particularly significant for the horticultural industry. As a leading exporter of fresh produce, flowers, and processed fruits and vegetables, Kenya provides a natural entry point for global buyers seeking access to Africa’s rapidly growing agricultural markets. The country’s established expertise in horticulture, combined with its strategic location, makes it an ideal hub for connecting African producers with international demand.
The initiative is supported by Kenya’s Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), and the Office of the Special Envoy on Technology. This multi-stakeholder approach underscores the government’s commitment to transforming the agricultural value chain.
Hon. Lee Kinyanjui, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, emphasized the strategic importance of the event: “The launch of Gulfood360 Africa/Kenya signals a decisive step in Kenya’s trade and investment journey. Kenya is positioning itself as Africa’s gateway, connecting farms, factories, and supply corridors to the world.”
Infrastructure and Green Energy Advantage
Kenya’s readiness to host the platform is bolstered by significant infrastructure investments, including the expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, modernization of the Port of Mombasa, and development of multimodal trade corridors. For horticultural exporters, these improvements mean enhanced cold chain capabilities and faster routes to international markets.
A key competitive advantage for horticultural producers is Kenya’s leadership in renewable energy. With over 90% of the country’s electricity generated from clean sources, including geothermal, wind, solar, and hydroelectric power, producers have access to reliable, low-cost, and sustainable energy. This positions Kenya as an attractive destination for investment in climate-smart agriculture and processing facilities.
Technology and Innovation Focus
Gulfood360 Africa/Kenya will showcase how technology is transforming agricultural value chains. The platform will highlight AI-driven agritech, digital trade platforms, smart logistics, and climate intelligence solutions that are reducing food loss, enhancing farmer incomes, and building resilient supply chains from farm to market.
Kenya’s reputation as “Africa’s Silicon Savannah” adds another dimension to the event. The country’s innovation ecosystem, particularly in digital payments, logistics technology, and agricultural technology, creates opportunities for horticultural businesses to adopt cutting-edge solutions for production, processing, and distribution.
Access to Continental Markets
The timing of Gulfood360 Africa/Kenya aligns with the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which creates a single market of over 1.4 billion people. For horticultural exporters, this represents unprecedented access to continental markets, with Kenya serving as the strategic hub for reaching consumers across Eastern, Central, and Southern Africa.
Sen. Mutahi Kagwe, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, noted: “Agriculture sits at the heart of Kenya’s economy, contributing over a quarter of our GDP and supporting millions of livelihoods. Gulfood360 Africa/Kenya reflects our commitment to converting this agricultural strength into global opportunity.”
Regional Impact
The platform is expected to accelerate export pipelines, unlock processing and manufacturing partnerships, and facilitate investment in agricultural value addition across the region. For smallholder farmers and horticultural cooperatives, the event offers opportunities to connect with global buyers, access financing, and integrate into international supply chains.
Trixie LohMirmand, Global Organiser of Gulfood, stated: “Kenya is built for global competitiveness, and Africa is at its inflection point. Gulfood360 Africa/Kenya positions the country as the conduit through which African produce and value flow into international markets.”
The launch of Gulfood360 Africa/Kenya represents a strategic convergence of infrastructure development, technological innovation, and market access that could reshape Africa’s position in global horticultural trade. As the continent’s horticultural sector continues to expand, the platform promises to serve as a catalyst for connecting African producers with the world’s most important food markets.
For more information: Visit www.gulfood360kenya.com