KALRO appoints new Director General as Kireger exits after 11 years

Dr Patrick Ketiem is the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation's (KALRO) new Director General./HANDOUT

The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO) has appointed Dr Patrick Ketiem as its new Director General, replacing Dr Eliud Kireger, who has completed an 11-year tenure at the institution.

The announcement was made by Board Chair Dr. Thuo Mathenge, who said the leadership transition comes as KALRO steps up efforts to support climate-resilient agriculture, food security, and research-led innovation.

Under Kireger’s tenure, Mathenge noted, KALRO strengthened its research systems and innovation pipeline, contributing to national agricultural development.

Ketiem previously served as Institute Director at the Agricultural Mechanization Research Institute (AMRI) and Chief Principal Research Scientist.

He brings over 24 years of experience in agricultural engineering, research, and public service, with expertise in mechanization, climate adaptation, post-harvest management, and agro-processing.

In his remarks during the handover, Ketiem urged staff to work collaboratively and uphold KALRO’s mandate, saying unity, partnerships, and research excellence will be key in driving impact for farmers and the agricultural sector.

He also pledged to strengthen linkages with stakeholders and research partners to ensure science continues contributing to national food security and sustainable agricultural transformation.

The board chairman, Dr. Thuo Mathenge, pointed out that KALRO has, over the years, developed and commercialized crop varieties, livestock breeds, and farming technologies used by smallholder farmers across Kenya.

Mathenge said the appointment of the new DG comes at a critical time when the organization is strengthening its focus on climate resilience, sustainable food systems, and inclusive agricultural transformation.

He urged staff to work collaboratively and take KALRO to the next level. “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,” Mathenge noted.