By Carmelo Troccoli
We are proud to celebrate the first anniversary of Farmers Market Nairobi, a milestone that represents far more than a successful market, it reflects a shared commitment to strengthening local food systems and reconnecting communities with the people who grow their food.
This celebration is even more meaningful as we look to the future. A new Italian cooperation project is now beginning in Africa: “Strengthening Agri-Food Ecosystems in the Republic of Congo, Senegal, and Ghana.” Together with our partners, we are already actively working in these countries to support the development of farmers markets and to build strong, inclusive networks that empower local producers and communities.
The opening of Farmers Market Nairobi was made possible through the Mediterranean African Market Initiative (MAMi), developed by the World Farmers Markets Coalition together with Campagna Amica, Coldiretti, CIHEAM Bari, and RECOF, with the support of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Italian Cooperation. Since its launch in January 2025, the market has become a vibrant weekly meeting point where local farmers and food producers sell directly to consumers, promoting transparency, fair prices, and food biodiversity.
Today, dozens of producers benefit from this model, gaining economic stability and the ability to reinvest in sustainable agricultural practices. At the same time, consumers enjoy fresh, seasonal, locally produced food while building trust and direct relationships with those who cultivate it. Farmers Market Nairobi has grown into a true community space, one that values dignity, knowledge, and connection across the food chain.
Nairobi is the second MAMi-supported farmers market to celebrate its first year, following Alexandria Farmers Market last October. In the coming months, we will also mark the first anniversaries of Tripoli Farmers Market in April and Tunis Farmers Market in May, confirming the strength and continuity of this shared vision across the region.
The success of MAMi has demonstrated that farmers markets are powerful tools for reinforcing local food systems in Egypt, Kenya, Lebanon, and Tunisia. Building on this experience, we are excited to continue expanding this model and to remain fully engaged in new initiatives that strengthen agri-food ecosystems around the world.
