Historical Background

Background

The Agricultural Society of Kenya (A.S.K) was founded in December 1901 under the name East African Agricultural and Horticultural Society (EAA & HS). The central objective was to promote agricultural development based on European Settlement. This was the brainchild of John Ainsworth, who was the Sub-Commissioner for Ukambani Province. He believed that the organisation was to be an invaluable institution in the struggle to establish and maintain an agricultural export commodity economy. The shows were to be a very important shop window for prospective buyers both local and International. Nairobi became the Society’s Headquarters with the first show held at the Jeevanjee gardens and market in 1902.

Significant Milestones Of ASK

1902

First Show

The first show was held on 26th February at the Jeevanjee Gardens and Market.

1903

Two Shows

Two Shows were held one in Jeevanjee Gardens and the other in Mombasa’s Prince Park.

1949

Name Change

The Society changed its name from A &HSK to Royal Agricultural Society of Kenya (R.A.S.K)

1964

Name Change

The Society changed its name to the Agricultural Society of Kenya and His Excellency the 1st President of Kenya the Late Mzee Jomo Kenyatta became the Patron of the Society.

1969

Society Hosted

The Society hosted the Royal Agricultural Society of the Commonwealth (R.A.S.C) Conference

1972

Society Honored

The Society was honored to host the All Africa Trade fair

1986

International Recognition

The first Preferential Trade Area (P.T.A) Trade Fair was incorporated during the Nairobi National Show. This was to mark the beginning of the Society attaining International recognition.

1995

World Ploughing Contest

The 52nd World Ploughing Contest was held at Ngongongeri Farm, in Egerton University, Njoro.

Today

Patron of the Society

Today, His Excellency the President Hon. Dr. William Samoei Ruto is the Patron of the Society.