November 20, 2025
Kenya’s agricultural sector has lost one of its most influential and principled voices. Eric Kumunguyi, CEO of aak-GROW/CropLife Kenya, leaves behind a legacy defined by responsibility, integrity, and a deep commitment to elevating agricultural standards across the country.
Eric was widely recognized for championing the judicious use of pesticides, not only in floriculture but across all farming systems. He believed that Kenya’s competitiveness and the safety of its people depended on how responsibly the sector handled crop protection.
He often reminded industry players that “pesticides are tools, and like any tool, their value depends on how correctly and responsibly they are used.”
To him, stewardship was not an option but a duty, “Good agriculture is not just about yields; it’s about protecting the farmer, the consumer, and the environment at the same time,” he would say during forums and training sessions.
While Eric made an indelible mark in the floriculture industry, his influence stretched far beyond greenhouses. He worked with policymakers, scientists, county governments, and growers to push for science-led decisions, transparency, and compliance with global standards. He believed that empowering farmers with knowledge was the cornerstone of safer food systems.
“When you train a farmer, you protect an entire value chain,” he once noted, underscoring his belief in capacity building over enforcement alone.
Colleagues and partners remember him as approachable, deeply principled, and unafraid to speak plainly when the sector needed direction. He fought misinformation with facts, fear with science, and complacency with action. His insistence on safety and responsibility set a tone that will continue guiding Kenya’s agricultural community for years to come.
Eric Kumunguyi’s contributions live on in the policies he shaped, the stewardship culture he strengthened, and the countless farmers and industry professionals he inspired. He will be profoundly missed, but his impact and his words continue to guide the sector he served so tirelessly.
Rest in peace, Eric. Your vision and leadership will continue to flourish across Kenya’s agriculture sector.