The Kantaria Legacy: A Family’s Gift to the Future of African Agriculture
Kantaria Agricultural Technology and Innovation Centre(KATIC) Building
On August 14, 2025, First Lady Rachel Ruto will preside over the launch of the Kantaria Agricultural Technology and Innovation Centre (KATIC) at the University of Nairobi’s Upper Kabete Campus. The KSh 100 million facility is funded by an KSh 80 million construction gift and KSh 20 million furnishing donation from the Kantaria family, in partnership with agribusiness leader Elgon Kenya.
KATIC is named in honour of the late Dr. Rajnikant Kantaria, a philanthropist and former chairman of Elgon Kenya, whose legacy continues through the family’s commitment to advancing Kenya’s agricultural sector. The centre will bridge the gap between university research, industry needs, and farmer realities — a vital step in commercializing innovations for real-world impact.
Members of the Kantaria family pose for a group photo during the groundbreaking ceremony
Elgon Kenya, a leading agricultural input supplier in East Africa, will contribute industry expertise, mentorship and market linkages to ensure that innovations move from lab prototypes to practical tools for farmers. From soil health and seed technology to post-harvest solutions, KATIC is positioned to become a hub for agri-tech breakthroughs.
The facility’s design includes tech-shop, demo plots, training halls, modern laboratories and incubation spaces, allowing students and startups to test, refine, and launch solutions under one roof. This follows a proven model: past collaborations between the University of Nairobi and Elgon Kenya have already led to student internships, job placements, and successful agribusiness startups.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kenya Advanced Technology Industrial Centre (KATIC)
As Kenya faces pressing challenges in climate change, food security, and youth unemployment, KATIC stands as a timely and strategic investment. It is expected to attract innovators, industry leaders, and development partners from across Africa, cementing its role as a driver of Kenya’s next agricultural revolution.
