The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) has appointed Dr. Patrick K. Ketiem as its new Director General, marking a leadership transition at the national agricultural research body.
Dr. Ketiem takes over from Dr. Eliud Kireger, who concludes an 11-year tenure credited with institutional strengthening, expanded national and international research partnerships, and enhanced research and innovation systems at KALRO. Under Dr. Kireger’s leadership, the organization strengthened its contribution to food security and agricultural development. KALRO said it remains appreciative of his service and legacy.
An accomplished scientist and agricultural engineer, Dr. Ketiem brings more than 24 years of experience in agricultural research, innovation, and public service. He has held several senior positions within KALRO, most recently serving as Institute Director at the Agricultural Mechanization Research Institute (AMRI) and as Chief Principal Research Scientist.
His expertise spans agricultural mechanization, climate change adaptation and mitigation, post-harvest management, agro-processing, and environmental sustainability. KALRO noted that Dr. Ketiem has led multidisciplinary research initiatives across diverse agro-ecological zones, mobilized research funding, and supported the scaling of technologies aimed at improving productivity, resilience, and livelihoods among smallholder farmers.
The appointment comes at a time when KALRO is sharpening its focus on climate resilience, sustainable food systems, and inclusive agricultural transformation.
In his inaugural address, Dr. Ketiem called on staff to embrace unity and collective responsibility in strengthening the organization’s service delivery. He urged researchers to collaborate more closely, share resources, and build synergies to enhance innovation and impact in agricultural research and development.
He reaffirmed his commitment to steering KALRO towards greater performance, urging staff to unite under a shared vision and mission of delivering excellence in agricultural research and innovation for Kenya and beyond.
KALRO Board Chair Dr. Thuo Mathenge expressed confidence in the new Director General, urging staff to work collaboratively to elevate the organization. “On behalf of the Board of Management, we are confident that Dr. Patrick K. Ketiem’s proven leadership, deep scientific expertise, and commitment to impact-driven research will further strengthen KALRO’s role as a leading institution in advancing food security, climate resilience, and sustainable agricultural development for Kenya and beyond,” he said.
KALRO said it looks forward to a new chapter under Dr. Ketiem’s leadership, with strengthened partnerships and research-driven solutions delivering tangible impact for the country.
