KEPSA participated in the Bayer Partners Dinner on 17^th May 2023 that was held in Nairobi. The dinner brought together leaders and national stakeholders in the Health and Agriculture sectors, to network and discuss a common vision for progress and prosperity, and commemorate years of friendship and collaboration. The open dialogue dinner sought to generate innovative ideas, forge stronger partnerships, and jointly address the challenges that Kenya is currently facing. It further provided for an ideal platform to exchange perspectives, share insights and collectively shape a better future for Kenya.

KEPSA, represented by the CEO Ms Carole Kariuki, Director in charge of Food Security and Climate Change Dr Bimal Kantaria and Directorin charge of Health and Social Sectors Dr Elizabeth Wala, noted the long-lasting importance, scope and profound impact of the private sector, of which Bayer is a proud member.

KEPSA has undertaken vital programs within the private sector that the partners could benefit from, including the Ajira Digital Program, Better Business Practices for Children (BBPC) initiative in partnership with UNICEF which aim at leveraging and scaling up the private sector in improving maternal infant and young child nutrition practice, and gender issues including Gender-Based Violence (GBV) that the private sector advocates for.

The private sector is cognizant of the fact that healthy, sustainable and inclusive food systems are critical to achieving the world’s development goals. Agricultural development is one of the most powerful tools to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity. Agriculture dominates the Kenyan economy, accounting for 40% of the overall workforce and about 25% of the annual workforce.

The event underscored the significance of private sector involvement in decision-making processes pertaining to these key areas of the state's development. KEPSA has continued to play a significant role in providing thought leadership and advocacy to support the development of healthcare, agribusiness trade and industry in Kenya. Moreover, the attendees were encouraged to forge new partnerships and were provided with an outline of the company's strategic plans for the upcoming years. The focus of these plans revolved around facilitating mutual support in terms of funding and expertise, with a specific emphasis on developing the agricultural and health sectors in Kenya.