The Holland Golden Triangle is collaborative framework that integrates the government, private sector and educational institutions to drive innovation and development in agriculture. This model has been instrumental in establishing the Netherlands as a global leader in agricultural productivity and sustainability –
By Catherine Riungu.
A unique agriculture infrastructure is developing at the University of Nairobi, the Agriculture Technology & Innovation Centre that’s nearing completion. Sponsored by Elgon Kenya, the institution is the company’s chosen path to give back to a sector it is deeply rooted in, with a more than 100 years history.
For those not familiar with the centre, here is some background. As you read through, we wish to tell you why it matters by juxtaposing it with the Netherlands Golden Triangle, hoping Kenya’s agriculture sector fraternity can take this institution to the level of Holland’s. A long shot, yes, but since the foundation has been laid and calls made for partnerships, why not?
The centre is primed to enhance agricultural innovation, research, and development in Kenya. Located at the University’s College of Agriculture & Veterinary Sciences, Upper Kabete Campus, or Kabete Ngómbe, it is a hub for agricultural innovation, experiential learning and technology transfer.
The Centre aims to bridge the gap between academia, industry, research and the farming community by providing access to knowledge, learning materials, and practical exposure to technology and innovations.
The institution was officially launched on July 25, 2023. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by notable figures, with Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, as the chief guest, along with the permanent secretaries for agriculture and education, ambassadors from France, Israel, and Japan plus other dignitaries from both government and the private sector.
With that background, let’s take a glimpse into the the “Holland Golden Triangle”, a model that has been instrumental in establishing the Netherlands as a global leader in agricultural productivity and sustainability.
- Government: The Dutch government plays a pivotal role by funding agricultural innovation and research and development (R&D) projects. Agencies such as the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO) and the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) facilitate these efforts by organizing R&D initiatives and providing financial incentives, including tax benefits, to support innovation in the agricultural sector.
- Private Sector: Businesses and entrepreneurs are central to the Golden Triangle, investing in technological advancements and applying research findings to practical agricultural solutions.
- Educational and Research Institutions: Universities and research centers contribute by conducting fundamental and applied research. Wageningen University, located in the heart of the Netherlands’ food research and innovation hub, is renowned globally for its food science programs and serves as a prime example of academic excellence within the Golden Triangle.
The synergy among these three sectors has led to significant advancements in agricultural practices, including the development of high-tech urban agriculture solutions and sustainable farming methods. This collaborative approach has enabled the Netherlands to maintain a competitive edge in the global agricultural industry, fostering continuous innovation and economic growth.
The success of the Golden Triangle model has garnered international attention, with experts advocating for similar frameworks in other countries to enhance their agricultural sectors, emphasis being collaboration between government, private sector and academic institutions to drive economic benefits in agriculture and related sectors.
The ground has been cleared for a Kenya Golden Triangle/ Catherine@hortinews.co.ke
