Banana Farming in Kenya: Focus on Cooking and Ripening Varieties

One of the most important agricultural activities in Kenya is Banana Farming, providing both food and income to many small scale farmers. It is an adaptable crop that can be grown in various regions of the country, making it one of the most important crops of the nation’s agricultural landscape. 

Banana Farming: Ripening Variety

Best known for their rich nutritional value, bananas can be eaten in different forms; from fresh, to processed products like banana flour, jam and wine. Banana farming has progressed into a profitable venture for small scale farmers, especially with the demand for different banana varieties going up that cater to various culinary needs.

ALSO SEE: BANANA FARMING IN KENYA FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTION

In this article, we will look at the varieties or types that are grown in Kenya, mainly taking a focus on cooking and ripening varieties, and how farmers can boost or maximize their banana farming capabilities for even more income and sustainability.

Banana Farming in Kenya: Understanding the Importance of Bananas in Kenya's Agricultural Sector

Bananas are quite an important food crop as well as an important income earner for the Kenyan farmers. They are a rich source of important nutrients like potassium, fiber and vitamins making them a healthy food choice for many people. Different ecological regions in Kenya like Central Kenya, Rift Valley and parts of Eastern Kenya are god for banana farming.

The demand for bananas continues to rise, driven by both local consumption and the increasing market for processed banana products. And for this reason, banana farming has become an important player for food security and economic development in the country.

 A good read for you for successful Fruit farming: Tips For Profitable Banana Passion Fruit Farming in Kenya

Types of Bananas Grown in Kenya

Bananas can be divided into several categories based on their uses. These include cooking bananas, ripening bananas, plantain bananas, and dual-purpose bananas. The different varieties play a unique role in the kitchen or market, and understanding these differences is key for that farmer who is looking forward to maximizing their yields.

1. Plantain Bananas: A Unique Variety

Plantain bananas, which are closely related to regular bananas, are gaining popularity in Kenya. While they are larger and have thicker skin, plantains are primarily used for cooking, even when ripe. Unlike regular bananas, plantains are less sweet and starchier making them ideal for a wide range of savory dishes..

Plantain bananas are widely grown in Kenya, especially in regions where the climate and soil conditions favor their cultivation.  Plantain banana can be prepared into meals and served as a fried, roasted, boiled or even mashed dish offering a many-sided alternative to many Kenyan dishes.

2. Cooking Bananas: The Heart of Kenyan Cuisine

Cooking bananas are specifically grown for culinary purposes and are not typically eaten raw. Cooking bananas do not ripen after harvest as compared to the ripening varieties. And if left to ripen, they tend to spoil. These bananas are best when used in savory dishes like stews, curries, and the famous Kenyan dish "matoke."

The most common varieties that are best for cooking include Ngombe, Uganda Green and FHIA 17. They are loved for their firm texture and ability to hold their shape when cooked, making them a perfect choice for local dishes.

Fried Banana Dish

3. Ripening Bananas: For Sweet Treats

Ripening bananas are grown primarily for their sweetness, which develops as they mature. These bananas are typically consumed raw or used in desserts, smoothies and baked goods. They are softer than cooking bananas and are enjoyed for their sweet taste and smooth texture.

Examples of ripening bananas include Dwarf Cavendish, Giant Cavendish, Williams and Grand Naine. These bananas are commonly found in Kenyan households and are also popular for export, especially to international markets.

READ ON Benefits of an Integrated Farming System, and How Does it Work?

4. Dual-Purpose Bananas – The Best of Both Worlds

Like FHIA 17, the multiple-use banana varieties can be prepared in to a cooked dish when green and can also be ripened for sweet consumption. These bananas offer the flexibility of serving multiple functions, making them an ideal choice for farmers who want to cater to both savory and sweet markets.

Tissue Culture in Banana Farming in Kenya

One of the most innovative methods of banana farming in Kenya is tissue culture, a form of plant propagation that uses laboratory system to grow disease-free banana plants. Tissue culture has brought new ways of banana farming and thereby giving so many benefits in comparison to the traditional methods, such as planting from suckers.

What is Tissue Culture?

Tissue culture, also known as micro propagation, is the growing of banana plants from small tissue samples in a sterile lab environment. It ensures that the plants are free from pests and diseases that affect banana farming and giving so much healthier crops with better productivity.

Advantages of Using Tissue Culture in Banana Farming

Tissue culture offers several key benefits for Kenyan farmers:

1. Disease-Free Plants: The main advantage of tissue culture is that it produces disease-free planting materials, reducing the risk of pests and diseases that can affect banana crops.
2. Higher Yields: Bananas grown from tissue culture end up giving higher yields, as the plants are healthier and more resilient.
3. Faster Growth: Tissue-cultured bananas mature more quickly, allowing farmers to harvest their crops sooner and improve their income.
4. Uniform Growth: Tissue culture ensures that all plants grows uniformly, making it easier to manage crops and harvest at the right time.
5. Sustainable Farming: In the use of tissue culture the farmers can grow more bananas in small spaces and end up reducing the pressure on land and promoting sustainable farming practices.

Challenges of Tissue Culture in Banana Farming

While tissue culture offers numerous benefits, there are some challenges associated with its use:

1. High Cost: Tissue culture requires specialized equipment and skilled labor, making it more expensive than traditional methods of banana propagation.

2. Genetic Uniformity: Since tissue culture produces identical plants, there is a reduction in genetic diversity. This can make crops more vulnerable to diseases that affect all plants uniformly.

3. Adoption Barriers: Many smallholder farmers in Kenya are still unfamiliar with tissue culture, and adopting this method requires training and support from agricultural experts.

Maximizing Yield in Banana Farming in Kenya

To make the most of banana farming in Kenya, farmers need to focus on proper cultivation techniques and efficient farming practices. Here are some tips for maximizing banana yields:

1. Choosing the Right Location

Bananas thrive in warm, tropical climates with well-drained soils. It’s essential to plant bananas in areas that receive adequate rainfall or have reliable irrigation systems. Regions with rich, loamy soils are ideal for growing bananas.

2. Planting and Spacing

When planting bananas, it's crucial to dig holes that are at least 60 cm wide and 60 cm deep. This ensures that the roots have enough space to grow and access nutrients. The holes should be spaced about 3 meters apart, and the rows should be arranged in a way that allows for proper irrigation and sunlight.

3. Proper Fertilization and Irrigation

Bananas are water-intensive crops, so regular irrigation is necessary to keep the plants hydrated. Farmers should also apply organic manure or compost to enrich the soil with essential nutrients. Additionally, regular weeding and thinning are important to prevent competition for resources.

Banana Farming

Banana Farming in Kenya: Harvesting and Post-Harvest Care

Bananas typically take 8 to 12 months to mature, depending on the variety and growing conditions. It’s important to harvest the bananas at the right time to ensure high-quality fruits. Once harvested, bananas should be handled carefully to avoid bruising, and those meant for ripening should be stored in controlled conditions to allow for proper ripening.

Still undecided on the best fruit trees to plant this rainy season to earn you money? Read On Most Profitable Fruit Trees to Grow in the Kenyan Climate in 2025

To conclude, banana farming in Kenya is a profitable and sustainable agricultural venture, offering numerous opportunities for smallholder farmers. The introduction of tissue culture farming has further boosted productivity, making banana farming more efficient and profitable. However, there is still room for growth and improvement as more farmers adopt modern farming practices and technologies.

FAQ About Banana Farming in Kenya

• What banana types grow in Kenya? Kenya grows cooking, ripening, plantain and dual-purpose bananas.
• How long does it take to grow bananas? Bananas take 8–12 months to grow. Time varies by type and place.
• Why use tissue culture? Tissue culture gives healthy plants. Expect more fruit, fast growth, and even plants.
• Where can bananas grow in Kenya? Bananas like warm lands and good soil. Central, Rift Valley, and Eastern Kenya are great.
• How to get more bananas? Use tissue culture plants for best results. Water well, add plant food, and give plants space. Fight bugs and stay ahead of disease.

The rainy season is here, which fruit and vegetable seedlings do you want us to supply you with? Contact us at 0724698357/0723213602.

 

What are the Key Factors for Successful Mango Farming in Kenya?

Many Kenyans believe that mangoes are only harvested during the December-January season, and that mango farming is mostly limited to Ukambani and Murang'a regions. It can be tough to convince people that mango farming can be a profitable business. This skepticism comes mainly from a lack of understanding. The truth is, mango farming in Kenya can be very profitable, but it’s usually farmers who have embraced innovative techniques that succeed. Let’s take a closer look at some of these best practices for mango farming.

Mango Farming in Kenya: Dwarf Variety

Mango Farming in Kenya Key Factors: High-Quality Mango Varieties

Instead of growing the common mango varieties which often have a lot more fiber than flesh, the more successful farmers choose high-quality varieties. These superior varieties not only taste better but also produce more fruit. Some of the best options include grafted apple mangoes, grafted Keitt mangoes, and grafted Ngowe mangoes.

Choosing the Right Varieties for Longer Harvests

Another key to making mango farming profitable is selecting varieties that continue to produce fruit long after the regular mango season ends. Kent mangoes, for example, are known for being among the sweetest and smoothest varieties in Kenya. They are also in high demand in Europe. Another variety, Alphonse mangoes, is rare in Kenya but is being cultivated by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KARLO), and will soon be available to farmers once it’s officially approved.

ALSO READ  How Do You Navigate the Challenges Faced in Fruit Farming in Kenya?

Mango Farming in Kenya: Flower Induction

To boost mango yields in Kenya, the flower induction technique is carried out. In tropical climates, managing irrigation well can help induce flowering. By limiting water during certain stages of growth, farmers can encourage the tree to shift from vegetative growth to flower production. It’s important to watch for signs that a tree is ready to flower, such as dull green or brownish-green leaves that feel brittle when crushed. For the best results, older trees tend to respond better to flower induction than younger ones. 

It is highly advised to spray a 1% potassium nitrate solution mixed with a sticker agent on the trees. This should be done just before the dry season, as trying to induce flowering during the rainy season can lead to fungal infections and poor pollination. When it is done the right way, flowers should appear within 10-14 days.

Best Regions for Mango Farming in Kenya

Mangoes thrive in warm lowland areas along the coast, like Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Tana River, and Lamu. They also grow well in the upper midlands, including areas like Murang’a, Kiambu, Kirinyaga, Embu, and Meru. Ukambani—comprising Machakos, Kitui, and Makueni—is also great for mango cultivation. Other areas such as Baringo, Narok, and Kajiado also provide favorable conditions for mango farming.

Land Preparation for Mango Farming

Before planting, the land should be deeply plowed and leveled, with a gentle slope. The spacing does always vary depending on the ecological zone. In dry zones, mango trees should be spaced 5m x 5m apart, while in areas with more rainfall and rich soil, spacing should be 8m x 8m. 

ALSO SEE Fruits and Vegetables Rich in Antioxidants: Unlocking Their Health Benefits and Impacts

For dwarf hybrids like Amrapali, trees can be planted closer together. After digging the holes, fill them with a mix of topsoil and 20-25 kg of well-rotted manure. Plant the grafted mango trees with the graft union above the soil line, ensuring the roots are not disturbed. Water the plants immediately after planting. During the first year or two, it’s a good idea to provide some shade and support the trees with stakes to help them grow straight.

Large Scale Mango Farming

Irrigation in Mango Farming

Proper irrigation is required for the young mango tree seedlings in order to establish them. For mature trees, watering every 10 to 15 days from fruit set to maturity can increase yields. However, it’s best to avoid watering 2-3 months before flowering to prevent promoting vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.

Intercropping with Mangoes

Other crops can also be grown alongside the mango trees, depending on the local climate and conditions. Intercrops like vegetables, legumes, or dwarf fruit trees such as papaya, guava, and peach can thrive. Be sure to meet the water and nutrient needs of these intercropped plants separately.

Mango Harvesting and Yield

The production or the yield of mangoes can vary greatly dependent on the variety you planted and the local weather conditions. Grafted mango trees start bearing fruit as early as two years, while seedling trees may take 5-8 years. The tree may produce just 10-20 fruits (2-3 kg) in the first few years, but this increases to 50-75 fruits (10-15 kg) in the following years. By the 10th year, a tree can produce up to 500 fruits (100 kg). In the 20^th to the 40^th year, a tree may bear 1,000-3,000 fruits (200-600 kg) annually. Grafted trees usually remain productive for 40-50 years before the yield starts to decline.

SEE  Most Profitable Fruit Trees to Grow in the Kenyan Climate in 2025

Youth Empowerment: How Farmers Can Make Millions Through Fruit Farming in Kenya in 2025

Post-Harvest Handling

Once harvested, mangoes need to be cooled to a storage temperature of 13°C as soon as possible. There are some mango varieties that can handle even cooler temperatures, of about 10°C. Post-harvest handling involves grading, washing, drying, waxing, packing, pre-cooling, palletizing, and transporting the fruit.

Mango Packaging

Mangoes are typically packed in corrugated fiberboard boxes measuring 40cm x 30cm x 20cm. Each box holds 8-20 mangoes in a single layer, and the boxes should have enough ventilation holes to allow air circulation.

Market Potential

According to the Horticultural Crops Development Authority (HCDA), mangoes in Kenya are typically in season from November to April, and sometimes as late as July. During the early months (November and December), there is less competition in international markets, meaning Kenyan mangoes can fetch higher prices, especially in Europe and the Middle East. However, the varieties grown in Kenya are not always favored by European buyers, which limits market access.

Mango Farming in Kenya

Mango Farming Support and Opportunities

Several banks in Kenya now offer funding schemes to support mango farming, including assistance for irrigation systems, fencing, and farm infrastructure. If you’re interested in getting started, it’s a great idea to book your mango seedlings early, as demand for them is high.

Contact Richfarm Kenya now and be advised on a way to best grow mangoes. In addition, book your mango seedlings now because the demand for mango seedlings is incredibly high now that the rainy is about to begin (the best season for establishing that fruit farm) and we would really like all our customers to have the primary priority.

And for any enquiries or need for more clarifications reach out to us through our socials, Richfarm Kenya on Facebook, X, Linkedln and Instagram. Or call us at 0724698357/0723213602.

The Kiwi Fruit Farming: A Goldmine

How Do You Navigate the Challenges Faced in Fruit Farming in Kenya?

Navigating Fruit Farming Challenges in Kenya: Reducing Fruit Loss

Fruit farmers in Kenya face significant challenges that hinder their productivity and food security. Did you know that almost 50% of the fruits and vegetables harvested in Kenya are lost before they even reach you the customer? This staggering statistic highlights the difficulties in the agricultural sector and the barriers that farmers face, which ultimately affect food security and the farmer’s livelihoods.

Proper Post-Harvest Fruit Storage Ready for Transportation

The fruit farming Agricultural sector in Kenya experiences numerous obstacles like poor infrastructure to lack of market access that exacerbate post-harvest losses. This article explores the primary challenges faced by fruit farmers, including crop diseases, transport inefficiencies and poor aggregation practices, and discusses strategies to reduce post-harvest losses, ultimately improving food security and farmer resilience in Kenya.

How Do You Navigate Challenges in Fruit Farming: The Growing Problem of Post-Harvest Losses

A Staggering 40-50% Loss in Fruit Harvests

Nearly 36.5% of the population is food insecure, and about 35% of children under the age of five suffer from malnutrition. Meanwhile, post-harvest losses in fruits and vegetables can be as high as 40-50%, this then means that half of the food produced by farmers never makes it to the market or the consumer. This magnitude of loss affects in a big way the livelihoods of farmers, particularly the small-scale producers who depend heavily on their harvests for income.

The problem is only set to grow. As Africa’s population is projected to double by 2050, and this therefore hints at the food production needs to increase by an estimated 60%. To meet this demand and ensure food security for all, reducing food losses in the agricultural sector, especially in fruit farming, becomes a crucial starting point.

Navigating Challenges in Fruit Farming in Kenya

1. Inefficient Market Infrastructure

The one and most prominent issue in the fruit farming sector is the lack of organized and efficient markets. Wholesale markets, where small-scale farmers sell their produce, are often open-air setups with no refrigeration, cooling systems or even proper hygiene standards. And these conditions contribute to a high degree the rapid deterioration of fruits, significantly reducing their shelf life.

Additionally, traders in these markets usually do not have an organized look to match supply with demand. As a result, they are often left waiting for buyers to show up, sometimes for days on end; I believe we have all witnessed this as buyers and sellers. During this wait, the produce wilts, spoils, or becomes infested with pests making it difficult to sell.

ALSO READ Use of Cover Crops and Mulching: A Powerful Combination for Healthy Fruit Trees

2. Problems in Fruit Transport

Transportation of fruit harvest from the farm to the market is another huge challenge. The fruit farming value chain involves numerous actors and middlemen, with up to 5-7 trade transactions before produce reaches its final destination. Farmers, especially those in rural areas, mostly depend on brokers for both sales and transportation.

This reliance leads to carelessness and tremendous risks. We see that vulnerable crops, such as mangoes and avocados are often handled roughly as they are loaded and unloaded from motorcycles, vans, and trucks, causing excessive damage to the produce. Since transport is done in open-air conditions without any cooling systems, fruits are therefore exposed to harsh environmental conditions, which shorten their shelf life and quality.

3. Post-Harvest Losses at the Farmgate

The farmgate is a critical point in the fruit farming supply chain, where much of the post-harvest loss occurs. Aggregation—the process of collecting produce from multiple farmers in an area—often happens in the open air or in sheds with no cooling. This exposure to heat and lack of proper handling means that fruits are not stored properly before getting transported.

Fruit Harvest Sorting and Grading for Market

And also, the farmers lack access to reliable information on market demand, leading to mismatches between supply and demand. Buyers’ trucks may arrive when there is no harvest, or conversely, farmers may be left with excess, unsellable produce if no buyers show up when the fruit is ripe. These inefficiencies account for a significant portion of the 40-50% loss in the fruit farming sector.

4. Small, Unorganized Players in the Supply Chain

The major handle to tackling the challenges in fruit farming is the fragmentation and lack of an organizational nature of the main players involved. The value chain consists of small-scale farmers, brokers, traders, and transporters, many of whom are unorganized and lack access to critical resources like financing, technology, and information. The lack of organization or communication tools like the smart phones, farmers cannot then be getting the worth of their production or connect efficiently with buyers.

This disorganization makes it difficult for any solutions to scale. For instance, introducing processing solutions, cooling systems, or advanced technologies for fruit preservation would require substantial financial investment and cooperation from many parties along the value chain. Furthermore, small-scale farmers typically lack access to affordable financing, making it harder for them to invest in technologies that could reduce post-harvest losses.

SEE ALSO Best Fruit Varieties for Different Climates: Selecting the Right Fruits for Maximum Productivity in Kenya (2025)

Strategies to Mitigate Post-Harvest Losses in Fruit Farming

To reduce fruit loss it needs well coordinated efforts and innovative solutions. Here are some strategies that could go in to helping in the reduction on post-harvest losses in Kenya's fruit farming sector:

1. Improved Market Infrastructure

One of the most effective ways to reduce post-harvest loss is to improve market infrastructure. The upgrading of the wholesale markets to include cooling systems and better hygiene standards would greatly extend the fruits’ shelf life. Farmers and traders would benefit from refrigerated storage facilities, which would help keep produce fresh until it reaches the consumer.

Additionally, markets should implement better demand-supply planning systems to avoid oversupply or shortages. With better market data and coordination, traders and farmers could ensure that produce is sold at the right time, reducing waste and ensuring higher profits.

2. Streamlined Transport and Cooling Solutions

The transport of produce from farms to markets is a major area that needs looking at. The introduction of refrigerated transport systems is crucial for extending the shelf life of perishable fruits such as mangoes, avocados, and bananas. Cold chain solutions can ensure that fruits are stored and transported at optimal temperatures, preventing spoilage during the journey.

Moreover, reducing the number of handovers in the supply chain would minimize damage to the produce. If farmers could connect directly with buyers, or if brokers had better access to transport logistics, fewer trade transactions would be necessary, and fruits would be less likely to be handled roughly.

3. Organized Farmer Cooperatives

Farmers can reap quite major benefits from organization into cooperatives or associations, including better access to market information, improved bargaining power and shared resources for post-harvest handling and storage. Farmer cooperatives can also help address issues of market access, enabling farmers to directly sell their produce to buyers, bypassing intermediaries and increasing their profitability.

By pooling resources and organizing collective bargaining, farmers would be able to access financial products that would allow them to invest in modern technologies such as refrigeration and processing units. These cooperative models can also assist in streamlining the aggregation process, reducing delays, and ensuring that fruits are aggregated in a more organized manner.

A Solar-Powered Fruit Storage Cold Room to Reduce Post-Harvest Losses

4. Adopting Technology in Fruit Farming

In the efforts to improve fruit farming in Kenya adoption of technological is very necessary. Digital platforms that provide market information, weather updates, and price trends can help farmers make better decisions about when and where to sell their produce. The platforms can also help connecting farmers directly with buyers and putting an end on the need for brokers and reducing the risk of post-harvest loss due to market inefficiencies.

Also integrating mobile apps and online platforms with supply chain logistics can help farmers track their products from farm to market, improving efficiency and reducing delays.

5. Training and Education

Training  and, or educating farmers on fruit handling best practices, storage and transport are key. Workshops and extension services can train farmers with the knowledge they need to implement better post-harvest management techniques, such as pest management, irrigation and smart crop rotation methods too.

Organic training in fruit farming and sustainable agricultural practices can also help farmers improve the overall health of their farms, resulting in higher yields and fewer losses due to pests and diseases.

READ ALSO How To Fertilize your Fruit Trees for Maximum Yields

To conclude, Kenyan fruit farmers face big problems, but not insurmountable. Better markets and easier transport will help. If the farmers can work together and use new tech there will be less fruit getting spoiled, ad this means we will have more food and stronger farms.

To fix these issues everyone must be ready to help, meaning the farmers, traders, the government and groups can come together and work as a team. They can give money, teach best practice skills and even build better systems. Our population in Kenya is till on the rise and getting more fruit to the market is key to feeding our nation and helping farmers earn more.

Sugarcane Farming In Kenya: Why You May Consider Uprooting Your Sugarcane Crop in Favour of Other Cash Crops

Sugarcane can take up to 24 months to reach maturity. Assuming the production of 100 tons per acre the average profit for sugarcane farming would range between Ksh 80,000- 120,000. Maximum profit of Ksh 120,000 distributed across the 24 months translates to about Ksh 5,000 per month which is way below the minimum wage in Kenya for a farmer who relies on sugarcane farming. That is without considering the unpredictability of when the sugar companies will pay the farmers.

That said, sugarcane farming is a key source of employment and livelihood for many people in Kenya. The country's fertile soil and tropical climate make it ideal for growing sugarcane, one of the major cash crops. The main sugarcane-growing areas in Kenya are Nyando and South Nyanza. The Nyando zone includes Kibos, Soin, Muhoroni, and Chemelil. The South Nyanza region includes areas of Sukari, Transmara, and Sonysugar. Sugarcane is also grown in the Western region, in areas of Butali, Nzoia, and Mumias.

Sugarcane farming in Kenya is done by small-scale farmers using small plots of land as their main source of livelihood for their families. Sugarcane farming is labor-intensive, involving planting, weeding, and harvesting. Despite the labor-intensive nature of the business, small-scale farmers in Kenya have successfully engaged in sugarcane farming

In the recent past the government of Kenya is working closely with farmers to revive the sugarcane industry. The government has introduced the sugarcane bonus to revitalize the sugar sector. Despite its controversial nature of introduction, the farmers stand to benefit. What would be in contention here is its sustainability over time. Both bonuses and dividends are directly related to a company's profitability, with the key difference being that bonuses are considered a business expense, while dividends are a distribution of profits to shareholders. How the government was able to offer a bonus while the industry has been experiencing losses over time remains to be a mystery.

Challenges Facing Sugarcane Farming in Kenya:

1. Declining Productivity

 The productivity of sugarcane farms in Kenya has been steadily declining in recent years, driven by a combination of factors that affect both the quality and quantity of yields. Poor farming practices, including inadequate land preparation, improper irrigation, and inefficient use of fertilizers, have contributed significantly to this decline. Additionally, many farmers still rely on aging cane varieties that are less resistant to pests and diseases, leading to lower yields and reduced cane quality. These factors have compounded over time, making sugarcane farming less profitable and less sustainable for many smallholder farmers, who are unable to adapt to these changing conditions due to limited resources or knowledge.

2. Poor Infrastructure

 In Kenya, inadequate infrastructure is a major challenge for sugarcane farmers. Poor road networks, particularly in rural areas where sugarcane farming is prevalent, make it difficult to transport harvested cane to the mills in a timely manner. This delay can lead to a decline in the quality of the cane and a reduction in the prices farmers receive. Additionally, many areas lack reliable electricity supply, which affects both the operations of sugar mills and the ability of farmers to utilize modern farming technologies. Outdated milling facilities are another obstacle, as they often operate inefficiently, resulting in low extraction rates and high wastage.

3. Unreliable Water Sources

Water availability plays a crucial role in the success of sugarcane farming, yet many regions in Kenya face significant challenges in this area. In areas where farmers rely on rain-fed agriculture, the unpredictability of rainfall has become a serious issue. Extended dry spells or unpredictable rainfall patterns can lead to droughts, severely affecting sugarcane growth. Without proper irrigation infrastructure, farmers in these areas face the risk of crop failure, resulting in reduced yields and, consequently, financial losses.

4. Pests and Diseases

Sugarcane is highly susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, which significantly affect yields and the overall quality of the crop. Pests like the sugarcane borer, which burrow into the stalks, can cause extensive damage to the crop, weakening the plants and making them more vulnerable to other diseases. In addition to pests, sugarcane is also vulnerable to several diseases, such as smut, which causes stunted growth and can result in the death of the plants.

5. Low Prices and Market Volatility

The sugar industry in Kenya is highly sensitive to fluctuations in global sugar prices, which can lead to instability in the local market. As global prices drop, the profitability of sugarcane farming decreases, and farmers may struggle to cover their production costs. In addition to price volatility, there is the issue of competition from imported sugar, which is often cheaper due to subsidies or lower production costs in other countries. This influx of imported sugar has been a significant threat to local farmers, as it drives down the prices that domestic sugarcane producers can charge for their crop.

6. Land Fragmentation

 Land fragmentation has become a growing issue in Kenya, particularly as the population continues to grow. Smaller land sizes reduce the ability to achieve economies of scale, leading to inefficiencies in production and increased costs. For sugarcane farmers, this fragmentation means that it is harder to allocate enough land for sugarcane cultivation, which is a crop that requires large areas to be grown efficiently. Furthermore, smaller landholdings may lack the resources necessary for the effective use of modern farming techniques, which are often capital and labor-intensive.

7. High Cost of Inputs

 The rising cost of inputs such as fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, and labor has become a major challenge for smallholder sugarcane farmers in Kenya. Even with fertilizer subsidies the quality of the availed fertilizer has recently come into question. Low qualities have occasioned a reduction in production. Consequently, the farmers have been forced to revert to the expensive fertilizer that is not subsidized at least the quality is a little bit assured.

8. Government Policies and Regulation

 The sugarcane farming sector in Kenya has been heavily affected by inconsistent government policies and poor regulation, which have undermined the sustainability of the industry. The lack of clear and effective regulations regarding pricing, land use, and market access often leaves farmers vulnerable to exploitation and unfair competition. Furthermore, the government has failed to provide adequate support for smallholder farmers, who struggle to access financing, modern equipment, and necessary resources. The closure of state-owned sugar mills, coupled with a lack of investment in modernizing existing mills, has further disrupted the supply chain.

Cost and Profitability of Sugarcane farming

·         Land preparation: Ksh 30,000 – Ksh 40,000 per acre

·         Planting materials: Ksh 10,000 – Ksh 15,000 per acre

·         Fertilizers and pesticides: Ksh 25,000 – Ksh 35,000 per acre

·         Labor costs: Ksh 40,000 – Ksh 60,000 per acre

·         Irrigation: Ksh 15,000 - Ksh 20,000 per acre

·         Miscellaneous  - Ksh 20,000 per acre

 

Average cost of production is about 250,000 per acre.

The current price of sugarcane per ton has been increased to Ksh5,300 from 4,950. Before August last year the price was Ksh 6,100 per ton. There is an upward trend which is promising to the farmers.

Assuming the production of 100 tons per acre the average profit would range between 80,000- 120,000. Sugarcane take up to 24 months to reach maturity. Maximum profit of 120k distributed across the 24 months translates to about Ksh 5,000 per month which is way below the minimum wage in Kenya for a farmer who relies on sugarcane farming. That is without considering the unpredictability of when the sugar companies will pay the farmers.

Escaping the vicious cycle ailing the sugarcane industry

One of the best ways to overcome is alternative farming. Many sugarcane farmers in Kenya are increasingly turning to alternative crops as a way to secure higher or more immediate profits, particularly when sugar prices are low. Crops like maize, horticultural products, and other cash crops often provide faster returns or better market prices, leading some farmers to shift away from sugarcane farming. This switch can be particularly appealing in times of economic uncertainty or when the sugar market is volatile.

A very viable option considering the nature of the climate in sugarcane growing areas which is warm to hot is also very ideal for fruit farming. With a little irrigation during the driest months farmers in Western and Nyanza region can improve their livelihoods significantly by practicing fruit farming. The weather in these areas is ideal for growth of 90% of fruits if not all.

There are quite a number of fruit seedling that start bearing fruit in less than two years whose profitability surpasses that of sugarcane by a very huge margin. Here are a few examples.

Fast Maturing Fruit Seedlings

1. Strawberry

Strawberry farming is relatively easy, especially if you are keen to provide balance soil nutrients. The process begins with preparing the soil, which should be well-drained and rich in organic matter.  

• 
  Cost per seedling Ksh. 60
  
• Seedlings per acre -24,000 
• Spacing - 30cm by 40cm
• Fruit price- Ksh 150 per kg (farmgate)
• Yield- 200kgs per week
• Common pests- red spider mites
• Diseases- blight, fusarium wilt, bacterial wilt
• Lifespan 2-3 year

Read more:

Strawberry Farming In Kenya

Strawberry 1/8 of An Acre Farm Setup

    2. Tree Tomato

The tree tomato, also known as tamarillo, is a small to medium-sized tree that can reach heights of up to 5 meters. It has large, heart-shaped leaves that give your farm a beautiful dark green canopy.

• 
  Cost per seedling Ksh. 60
  
• Seedlings per acre -1,100 
• Spacing - 2m by 2m
• Fruit price- Ksh 80-100 per kg
• Yield- 20-30 kgs per tree per year harvested every week
• Common pests- white flies and aphids
• Lifespan 10yrs

Detailed articles on Tree tomato:

How To Create Wealth Using Tree Tomato

Making Money With Tamarillo

    3. Passion Fruit

You can profit from passion fruit farming whether in a cool highland or a hot lowland. This is because there are varieties suited for different climatic conditions.

• 
  Cost per seedling Ksh. 100
  
• Seedlings per acre - 650
• Spacing - 2m by 3m
• Fruit price- Ksh 60-90 per kg (farmgate)
• Yield- 1 kg per plant per week
• Lifespan 3 years

Read more:

Passion Fruit Farming In Kenya

Sweet Yellow Passion Farming

    4. Pawpaws

Pawpaws, also known as papayas, are among the fruits that always have a short supply in the market. People love them, especially for babies, since they are rich in vitamins A and C and other essential nutrients.

• 
  Cost per seedling Ksh. 100
  
• Seedlings per acre -1,100 
• Spacing - 2m by 2m
• Fruit price- Ksh. 40-60 per kg
• Yield- 30-40 tons per year harvested weekly 
• Common pests- mites
• Lifespan 2-5 yrs depending on variety

    Detailed articles on pawpaw farming:

Pawpaw Farming Guide

Pawpaw Profitability Calculations

  5. Dragon Fruit

Dragon fruit farming in Kenya is no longer a foreign concept as it sounded 2 years ago. Today, we have a few hundred small-scale dragon fruit farmers in Kenya and tens of relatively large-scale farmers.

• 
  Cost per seedling Ksh. 300
  
• Seedlings per acre -2,000 
• Spacing - 2m by 1m
• Fruit price- Ksh 400-600 Per Kg
• Yield- 20-30 fruits per vine, a plant should have at least 5 vines
• Common pests- the plant is generally disease and pest resistant. 
• Lifespan - 40 yrs plus

More on dragon fruit farming:

Dragon Fruit Farming In Kenya Guide

Health Benefits Of Dragon Fruit

6. Banana Farming

Banana is one of the staple food crops grown in Kenya for both home consumption and for markets. Bananas are widely grown in most parts of Kenya for cooking and dessert.

• Cost per seedling Ksh. 250
• Seedlings per acre - 400-500
• Spacing - 3m by 3m
• Fruit price- Ksh 400-800 per bunch (farmgate)
• Maturity- 9 months
• Common pests- nematodes, mealybugs, scales
• Lifespan - 40 yrs plus

Read more articles on bananas farming below.

Plantain Farming in Kenya

Banana Farming In Kenya

Feel free to contact us via 0724689357 or 0723213602 or email us on info@richfarmkenya.com for enquiries and seedlings supply.