Agricultural Finance Corporation (AFC) Kenya is a state-owned development finance institution mandated to support and promote agricultural development in Kenya through the provision of affordable credit and financial services. Established in 1963, AFC plays a crucial role in enabling farmers and agri-businesses to access the capital needed to enhance productivity, adopt modern technologies, and improve their livelihoods. AFC’s core function is providing loans to a diverse range of agricultural enterprises. These include smallholder farmers, medium-scale farmers, large-scale commercial farms, agro-processors, and other agribusinesses. The loans offered are tailored to specific needs, catering to different aspects of the agricultural value chain. These encompass crop production, livestock rearing, irrigation, purchase of farm machinery, value addition, and marketing. Specific loan products are often designed for targeted sectors like dairy farming, horticulture, and cereal production. Beyond simply lending money, AFC aims to provide holistic support. This often includes technical assistance and advisory services to borrowers. These services are designed to equip farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage their farms, improve productivity, and adopt sustainable agricultural practices. AFC also collaborates with other institutions like agricultural research centers and extension services to disseminate information and best practices to its clients. AFC operates through a network of branches spread across the country, ensuring accessibility to farmers in various regions. The loan application process typically involves assessment of the applicant’s creditworthiness, farm size, proposed project, and ability to repay. Collateral requirements vary depending on the loan product and the applicant’s circumstances. While AFC is a vital source of agricultural finance, it faces several challenges. These include the high cost of funds, which can make loan products less accessible to smallholder farmers. The risks associated with agriculture, such as climate change and market volatility, also pose challenges to loan repayment. Furthermore, ensuring operational efficiency and reaching marginalized communities remains an ongoing effort. To address these challenges, AFC has been exploring innovative financing mechanisms, such as value chain financing and blended finance, to leverage additional resources and reduce risks. It also focuses on enhancing its technological capabilities to improve efficiency and reach a wider audience. Strengthening partnerships with other stakeholders, including government agencies, development partners, and private sector players, is crucial for achieving its mandate. Looking forward, AFC aims to play an even more significant role in transforming Kenya’s agricultural sector. This involves expanding its loan portfolio, promoting climate-smart agriculture, supporting youth and women in agriculture, and contributing to food security. By providing access to affordable credit and technical assistance, AFC can empower farmers, drive agricultural growth, and contribute to the overall economic development of Kenya.