The Early Agrarian Era
1900 - 1962
1903
Introduction of Commercial Cash Crops
British settlers introduced commercial farming in the 'White Highlands', focusing on cash crops like coffee, tea, and sisal. This laid the foundation for Kenya's export-driven agricultural economy.
1954
The Swynnerton Plan
The Swynnerton Plan was introduced to intensify development of African agriculture. It allowed Africans to grow cash crops and own land titles, fundamentally shifting the agricultural landscape.
Parallel Impact
Colonial Restrictions
Africans banned from cash crops
Before the plan, African farmers were heavily restricted from growing profitable cash crops like coffee and tea, to protect settler monopolies.
African Empowerment
Rise of African smallholders
The plan created a new class of African commercial farmers, leading to a surge in production and setting the stage for post-independence agricultural success.