By Jemima Mukasa
The Nairobi International Trade Fair is a perfect snapshot of Kenya’s dynamic culture and entrepreneurial spirit. A vibrant blend of agriculture, innovation, and entertainment, it draws everyone from seasoned farmers to curious schoolchildren. This year’s theme, “Promoting Climate Smart Agriculture & Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Economic Growth,” highlights the importance of sustainable practices in today’s world. As I navigated the crowded stands, watched children’s faces light up with excitement, and encountered a plethora of creativity, I was reminded of what makes the Nairobi show a unique event that both educates and entertains.
At 10 a.m., the sun was already scorching, and a cloud of dust hung in the air as eager schoolchildren, overwhelmed by the thrill of being at the show, rushed around. The air was filled with their excited chatter, an energy so palpable you could almost taste it. I was making my way through the crowded stalls when a vendor caught my attention, proclaiming, “That’s why our Deputy President told the West we don’t need them! We have everything we want and need right here. Usiguze Murima!” He was selling herbal remedies, claiming to cure everything from fibroids to epilepsy. With shelves packed with pills, powders, and teas, his confidence was infectious. But, as a cautious Nairobian, I wasn’t entirely sure whether to believe his grand promises.
As I ventured further, I was met with an overwhelming display of agriculture. Farmers from across the country showcased produce that made my own modest harvest pale in comparison. Maize as tall as my house and cabbages the size of watermelons were on display, humbling even the most seasoned growers. One farmer, after seeing a picture of my crops, told me I should burn them, they were not even fit for cows. Talk about a blow to my ego!
But that’s the magic of the Nairobi show. It’s humbling yet inspiring. You realize that Kenyans are some of the most hardworking, innovative people. Many of the brightest minds are showcased here, and the creativity on display is astonishing. For instance, the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), in partnership with USAID, is working on an initiative to maximize underutilized fruits like gooseberries, guavas, and soursop, turning them into products like juices and jams. I even tasted millet biscuits, which were surprisingly light and milder than simsim biscuits.
University stands are where the real gems of creativity shine. At the Kabete National Polytechnic stand, I sampled mushroom jam, an unlikely but tasty innovation. At the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) booth, students displayed a Wi-Fi booth that resembled an old-school telephone booth, a clever mix of agriculture and technology.
Innovation didn’t stop at food and tech. One youth group, Makele Youth Drive, developed a drip irrigation system made from recycled bottles and straws, regulating water to literal drops and keeping the soil moist without overwatering. It’s a small-scale, sustainable solution that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the Nairobi show, meeting challenges with ingenuity.
The fun didn’t end with agricultural exhibits. As I walked toward the rides section, nostalgia hit me like a wave. The laughter of children on Ferris wheels and merry-go-rounds brought me back to simpler times. Despite the inevitable post-ride nausea, the kids were back on their feet, eager for another round of fun. The music blared, competing stands played the same songs in different orders, while students lined up to see so-called mermaids, Nairobi’s classic show scams. It reminded me of the reckless abandon of my own childhood, when my biggest concern was finding a clean pair of socks for tomorrow’s shower inspection by the dorm matron.
As my day at the fair drew to a close, I found myself at the Ketepa Tea stand for the third time, realizing I had overdone my attempts to double-dip samples. With my windbreaker and hat becoming all too recognizable, I decided it was time to leave. Just as I was about to exit, I witnessed the familiar chaos of hawkers dodging city council officers, and a group of schoolchildren who had wandered too far from their groups getting caught up in the ruckus.
As I chuckled at a matatu sticker that read, “Chunga mwenzako, ni mwizi kama wewe,” I reflected on the day. The Nairobi show isn’t just an event, it’s a reflection of who we are as a people. From our humor to our resilience, the fair showcases our ability to thrive amidst chaos, finding joy in the simple things, like a child’s laughter or a creative idea turned into reality.
I left the fair not just with souvenirs but with a renewed sense of pride and inspiration. I’ve taken cards from vendors who offer site visits to their farms, eager to learn more and pursue my own agricultural goals. The sense of community, the collaboration between professionals, and the innovative spirit on display were nothing short of motivating.
In moments like these, it’s clear that the Nairobi International Trade Fair is more than just a yearly event. It’s a testament to our culture, our struggles, and our shared joy. And as I eagerly look forward to next year’s fair, I know that Kenya’s creativity and resilience will only continue to flourish.