NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) has appointed Dr Patrick Ketiem as its new Director General, succeeding Dr Eliud Kireger, who has completed an 11-year tenure at the helm of the state research agency.
KALRO said Dr Kireger’s tenure was characterised by institutional reforms, expansion of research systems, and the strengthening of national and international research partnerships. The organisation confirmed that his term has formally concluded.
Dr Ketiem brings more than 24 years of experience in agricultural research, innovation, and public service. Prior to his appointment, he served at KALRO as Institute Director at the Agricultural Mechanization Research Institute (AMRI) and as Chief Principal Research Scientist.
According to KALRO, his areas of professional focus include agricultural mechanisation, climate change adaptation and mitigation, post-harvest management, agro-processing and environmental sustainability.
Throughout his career, Dr Ketiem has led multidisciplinary research initiatives across different agro-ecological zones, participated in mobilising research funding, and overseen projects aimed at improving agricultural productivity and resilience among smallholder farmers.
His appointment comes as KALRO aligns its programmes with national priorities on climate resilience, sustainable food systems, and inclusive agricultural development.
In his inaugural address to staff, Dr Ketiem called for internal collaboration and shared responsibility in implementing the organisation’s mandate. He urged researchers to strengthen coordination, optimise resource use, and enhance cooperation to improve research delivery and impact.
KALRO Board Chair Dr Thuo Mathenge said the Board expects staff to work with the new Director General in advancing the organisation’s objectives in agricultural research and innovation.
KALRO reiterated that the leadership transition is in line with its statutory mandate under the Science, Technology and Innovation Act, which tasks the institution with coordinating and conducting agricultural research to support food security and sustainable development.
