From exhibition to dealroom: Nairobi trade fair's new pitch to investors

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Anthony Ikunda, the area police commander, addresses exhibitors during the 2026 Nairobi International Trade Fair Exhibitors Forum at Jamhuri Park showground, where he outlined security plans for the September event. [Courtesy]

The Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) is recasting the Nairobi International Trade Fair as a marketplace for investment, exports and partnerships, moving the decades-old agricultural exhibition beyond its traditional role as an annual showcase.

The shift was outlined during the 2026 Nairobi International Trade Fair Exhibitors Forum at Jamhuri Park showground, ahead of the main event scheduled for September 28 to October 4.

Bertram Muthoka, chief executive of ASK, said the society's 2025-2029 strategic plan emphasises partnerships, research, innovation, technology, marketing and stakeholder engagement.