Kenya Introduces New Soya Bean Varieties to Boost Food Security

Nairobi, Kenya – May 2, 2025 – The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO) has launched seven new soya bean varieties to strengthen food security and promote agricultural resilience during the rainy season. This initiative, aimed at enhancing crop diversification, is set to empower farmers and address the challenges posed by climate variability and market demands.

Soya beans, valued for their high protein content and versatility in food and industrial applications, are gaining traction as a key crop in Kenya’s agricultural landscape. The newly introduced varieties, developed through rigorous research and breeding programs, are designed to offer improved yields, pest resistance, and adaptability to diverse climatic conditions across the country.

“These soya bean varieties are a significant step toward sustainable agriculture and food security,” said Dr. Paul Kiprono, a senior researcher at KALRO. “They are tailored to thrive in Kenya’s rainy season, ensuring farmers can maximize production while reducing risks from pests and unpredictable weather.”

The varieties, tested in regions such as Western, Nyanza, and Rift Valley, exhibit traits like early maturity and tolerance to common diseases such as soybean rust. This makes them particularly suited for smallholder farmers who rely on rain-fed agriculture. Additionally, the varieties support crop diversification, reducing dependence on traditional staples like maize and improving soil health through nitrogen fixation.

Farmers who participated in the trial phase have expressed enthusiasm about the new varieties. “The soya beans grow faster and give better yields than what we used before,” said John Otieno, a farmer in Busia County. “They’re also easier to sell because of the high demand for soya products.”

The introduction of these varieties aligns with Kenya’s national strategy to boost agricultural productivity, which accounts for approximately 22% of the country’s GDP and employs over 64% of the rural population. By promoting soya bean cultivation, KALRO aims to enhance household nutrition, create new income streams for farmers, and support the growing agro-processing industry.

KALRO is working with county governments and private seed companies to ensure the new varieties are widely accessible through certified seed distribution networks. Extension services are also being rolled out to train farmers on best practices for soya bean cultivation, from planting to post-harvest handling.

“This is more than just introducing new seeds—it’s about building a resilient agricultural system,” Dr. Kiprono added. “Soya beans have the potential to transform livelihoods and contribute to Kenya’s food security goals.”

As the rainy season approaches, the rollout of these soya bean varieties marks a promising step toward a more diversified and climate-resilient agricultural sector in Kenya.