Nairobi opens first farmers' market of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa
Farmers in Kenya now have a new way to sell their produce without middlemen because of a special market that has been opened in the capital, Nairobi.
This market allows them to sell directly to consumers and is the first direct-to-consumer farmers' market of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa.
The market was launched on January 27 at Rosslyn Square Shopping Centre and will be open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. local time.
At least 30 local farmers are taking part, offering fresh food straight from their farms.
By selling directly, they can earn more money since they don’t have to go through brokers.
The market is based on a successful Italian model called Campagna Amica, which is Europe’s largest network of direct-to-consumer farms.
It is part of a bigger plan known as the Mediterranean and African Markets Initiative (MAMi). This project is funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and supported by the World Farmers Markets Coalition and CIHEAM Bari, an agricultural organisation.
According to the Italian Embassy, the market will help farmers connect with customers, making it easier for them to sell their goods and increase their income.
The initiative also promotes sustainable farming and strengthens the link between rural farmers and city residents. The Embassy says this is an important step in building a network of farmers across Africa and the Mediterranean.
