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Showing posts from January, 2016

Money Grows on Trees: How Kenyans Are Earning Millions Through Agroforestry

Most Kenyans are familiar with farming maize, tea, or coffee, but few realize that tree farming can be just as profitable, if not more. Agroforestry, the practice of growing trees for commercial and environmental purposes, is becoming one of Kenya’s most promising yet underexplored business ventures.

Feeding Chicken the Right Way: A Complete Guide for Every Stage

Feeding chickens isn’t just about tossing corn outside the coop. The quality, type, and timing of what you feed your birds determine their health, growth, egg production, and even the taste of their meat. Whether you’re raising layers or broilers, understanding the purpose of each feed type, its form, and how to read feed labels will help you get the most from your flock.

Ultimate Avocado Farming Guide: From Seedling to Harvest

Avocado farming has become one of the most profitable ventures for both small-scale and commercial farmers. Known for their rich taste and health benefits, avocados are now a major export crop and a growing local favorite. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right varieties to planting, maintenance, harvesting, and managing pests and diseases.

Sweet Potato Farming in Kenya – A Success Story from Kirinyaga

When James Thangwa , a former broadcaster, visited Kirinyaga County , he never imagined that a simple observation would change his life. “I was in Kirinyaga and saw how buyers from Nairobi and other towns were scrambling for sweet potatoes. The farm price was good, and I decided to try it,” Thangwa recalls with a smile.

Comprehensive Guide to Wheat Farming in Kenya

Wheat is one of Kenya’s most important cereal crops, providing raw materials for bread, pasta, and other bakery products. The country’s diverse climatic conditions, fertile soils, and established farming regions make wheat farming a valuable agricultural activity that supports both local consumption and industrial development.

Peanuts Farming Guide: A Success Story from Siaya, Kenya

Scientific Name: Arachis hypogaea In the heart of Musonga Village, Siaya County , lives a man who turned his search for financial freedom into a thriving agricultural enterprise. Mr. Timothy Simiyu , a 48-year-old former primary school teacher, has become a model of success in groundnut (peanut) farming .

Peas Farming Guide: How to Grow Healthy, High-Yield Peas (Pisum sativum)

Scientific Name: Pisum sativum Crop Type: Cool-season legume crop Ideal For: Small-scale farmers, gardeners, and large commercial farms Peas are one of the oldest cultivated crops in the world, valued for their rich protein content, versatility in cooking, and ability to enrich the soil with nitrogen. This guide provides everything you need to know about successful pea farming, from land preparation to harvesting and seed storage.

Feeding Cows Cabbage: The Dos and Don’ts Every Farmer Should Know

Crops in the brassica family,  including cabbage, cauliflower, rape (colza), and radish, are often used to feed livestock such as cattle, goats, sheep, and rabbits. These crops are particularly valuable in cooler regions and during dry seasons when perennial forages are scarce, as they produce abundant, highly digestible, and nutrient-rich feed. Cabbage However, while brassicas can significantly boost livestock productivity, improper use can lead to serious health problems . Here’s a complete guide on how to safely and effectively feed cabbage and other brassica crops to your cows.

The Ultimate Guide to Greenhouse Farming in Kenya

Greenhouse farming has revolutionized modern agriculture by allowing farmers to grow crops in a controlled environment, free from the limitations of harsh weather and fluctuating seasons. A greenhouse is a structure with transparent walls and a roof, often made of glass or plastic, designed to regulate temperature, humidity, air, and light to create ideal conditions for plant growth.

How I Chose the Right Chicken Breed to Keep

When I first decided to venture into poultry farming, I quickly realized that choosing the right chicken breed was one of the most important decisions I would ever make. The breed you pick affects everything, from egg production and feed costs to disease resistance and profit margins. Kari Kienyeji chicken So, before bringing any chicks home, I rolled up my sleeves and did my homework.

Horticulture Farming in Kenya: A Blooming Industry Driving Economic Growth

Horticulture farming in Kenya is one of the most vibrant and fast-growing sectors in the country’s agricultural industry. It involves the intensive cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and flowers,  both for local consumption and export. With favorable climatic conditions, fertile soils, and a strong export network, Kenya has positioned itself as a global leader in the horticulture market, supplying fresh produce to Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

Keeping Farm Records: The Key to Profitable and Sustainable Farming

In modern farming, keeping accurate and up-to-date records is not just a formality; it’s a vital part of running a successful and profitable agricultural enterprise. Whether you manage a small family farm or a large agribusiness, proper record keeping helps you understand your farm’s performance, make informed financial decisions, and plan for the future.

Value Addition: The Key to Boosting Farmer Revenues in Africa

Smallholder farmers across Africa, from Kenya and Sierra Leone to Egypt and Burkina Faso, have been hit hard by food crises and rising inflation. Yet, amidst these challenges, some farmers are proving that innovation and value addition can turn agriculture into a profitable, sustainable business. One such farmer is Samuel Njue from Embu, Kenya , who shared his inspiring journey with The African Executive’s Monicah Kimeu. His story shows how passion, knowledge, and strategic thinking can transform farming into a source of wealth and empowerment.

Finger Millet Farming in Kenya: A Drought-Resilient Grain with Great Potential

Finger millet ( Eleusine coracana ) is one of Kenya’s most resilient and nutritious cereals. Grown primarily in the Western and Lake Basin regions , this traditional crop continues to play a vital role in food security, especially in semi-arid and dry areas where other cereals struggle to thrive.

Pawpaw Farming in Kenya: A Complete Guide for Profitable Production

Pawpaw (commonly known as papaya ) is one of Kenya’s most rewarding tropical fruits to grow. It thrives in warm climates and provides a steady supply of delicious, nutritious fruits all year round. With the right management, pawpaw farming can become a sustainable agribusiness venture for both small-scale and commercial farmers.

Urban Farming: Growing Food Without Soil in Kenya’s Concrete Jungles

In Kenya’s urban and peri-urban centers, a new generation of farmers is transforming small spaces into thriving green oases. From rooftops to balconies, and even in narrow alleys, these innovators are growing food in buckets, sacks, and recycled containers, and, remarkably, even without soil. Welcome to the world of urban hydroponic farming , a smart, sustainable solution that’s redefining how city dwellers produce food.

Precision Farming: Small Doses, Big Results

In the evolving world of agriculture, precision farming,  also known as micro-dosing,  is redefining how farmers approach soil fertility and crop productivity. This simple yet transformative technique involves applying small, affordable quantities of fertilizer directly with the seed during planting or as a top dressing three to four weeks after germination.

Kienyeji Chicks Vaccination Schedule in Kenya: Complete Guide for Healthy Flocks

Vaccination plays a vital role in protecting poultry against deadly diseases — and Kienyeji chickens are no exception. While Kienyeji chickens are naturally hardier and more disease-resistant compared to exotic breeds, they still face threats from common poultry diseases such as Newcastle Disease and Gumboro (Infectious Bursal Disease) . Chicken vaccination schedule To ensure your flock stays healthy, productive, and profitable, a consistent vaccination program is essential. Below is a simple yet effective vaccination schedule and important health management tips for your Kienyeji chicks.

Beekeeping in Kenya: A Sweet Venture for Sustainable Livelihoods

Beekeeping, also known as apiculture , is one of the oldest agricultural practices in Kenya. Traditionally, honey was collected from wild bees in forests. Today, the practice has evolved into a thriving agribusiness that supports thousands of rural households while contributing to food security, biodiversity, and environmental conservation.

Fish Farming in Kenya: A Complete Guide to Profitable Aquaculture

Fish farming, or aquaculture, has become one of Kenya’s fastest-growing agricultural sectors, empowering rural communities, creating employment, and improving food security. Today, more than 500,000 Kenyans are directly employed in fish farming, while over one million others benefit indirectly. The industry generates over KSh 4 billion in foreign exchange annually and contributes more than KSh 7 billion to fishermen’s income, making it a key player in poverty alleviation and rural development .

Aloe Vera Farming: A Complete Guide from Planting to Harvest

Aloe vera—known as the “plant of immortality” — is one of the most versatile and beneficial succulents cultivated today. Although it resembles a cactus, Aloe Vera actually belongs to the lily family and is related to onions and garlic. Its thick, fleshy leaves store water, making it perfectly suited for hot, dry climates. Aloe Vera plant While Aloe Vera is now cultivated worldwide, it is believed to have originated in northern Africa. Today, it’s one of the most commercially valuable plants in both the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries, used in a wide range of products, from skin care and hair care to nutritional supplements.

Organic Farming in Kenya: The Future of Sustainable Agriculture

Organic farming in Kenya is quickly becoming more than just a trend—it’s a sustainable solution to food insecurity, soil degradation, and environmental pollution. Unlike conventional farming, organic agriculture focuses on natural growth cycles and ecological balance, relying on techniques such as crop rotation, composting, green manure, and biological pest control . In this post, we’ll explore what makes organic farming unique, why it’s important for Kenya’s future, and how you can start your own organic journey—even with limited capital.

Things to Consider When Buying a Dairy Cow: A Farmer’s Guide to Profitable Milk Production

Starting a dairy enterprise can be one of the most rewarding agribusiness ventures — but only if you start right. Many farmers dream of minting millions from milk sales, yet few achieve this because they overlook the most important foundation: proper breed selection and good animal husbandry. At the heart of every successful dairy farm lies one key principle — a cow’s milk production depends on its genetics and its environment . The environment here refers to housing, feeding, and health management. Let’s explore the critical factors you should consider before buying your next dairy cow.

Bean Farming in Kenya: A Complete Guide to High-Yield and Profitable Production

Bean farming in Kenya is undergoing a transformation, thanks to continued research and innovation in agricultural practices. Recently, scientists at the Kenya Agricultural Research Institute (KARI) developed a new high-yielding bean variety that performs exceptionally well even in low rainfall areas and shows strong resistance to pests and diseases . This new variety produces about 20 pods per plant , with an average yield of 25 bags per acre , compared to the traditional varieties that produce around 20 bags. Maturing within 90–95 days , it’s also resistant to common bean diseases—making it an excellent option for both smallholder and large-scale farmers. Although the variety is currently under trial cultivation , it’s expected to be released soon for commercial farming through certified seed companies. This development marks another milestone toward enhancing food security in Kenya , especially in light of FAO’s projections that food prices may rise in the coming decade.

Broiler Chicken Production: A Profitable Venture in Modern Livestock Farming

Broiler chicken production is one of the fastest-growing and most profitable livestock enterprises in Africa today. A broiler is a type of chicken raised specifically for meat production, known for its fast growth rate, efficient feed conversion, and high-quality meat yield. Whether managed as a small-scale backyard operation or a large commercial enterprise, broiler farming provides a reliable source of income and food security for many families across rural and urban areas alike.

Rediscovering Indigenous Vegetables in Kenya: Nourishing the Future through Forgotten Foods

For generations, indigenous vegetables have been the foundation of food security, nutrition, and culture in Kenya. From the fertile highlands to the semi-arid plains, local communities have long relied on wild and cultivated greens to enrich their diets. Yet, over time, these traditional foods have slowly disappeared from many plates — replaced by exotic vegetables such as cabbage, kale, and spinach. Amaranthus spp Today, Kenya faces a paradox: while many people suffer from nutrient deficiencies and food insecurity , the highly nutritious indigenous vegetables that once sustained communities are vanishing. As customs, land use, and dietary preferences change, so too does the knowledge of how to grow, cook, and preserve these local treasures.

Tissue Culture Banana Farming in Kenya: The Future of Sustainable Agriculture

Bananas are one of Kenya’s most important staple foods and a major source of income for smallholder farmers. However, traditional banana farming has long been affected by viral and fungal diseases, poor-quality planting materials, and low yields. Thanks to tissue culture technology , Kenyan farmers now have access to disease-free, high-yielding, and genetically uniform banana seedlings , leading to healthier crops and higher profits.

Strawberry Farming in Kenya: A Complete Guide for Beginners

Strawberry farming is one of the most promising yet underexploited agribusiness ventures in Kenya. Unlike bananas, mangoes, or oranges, strawberries are not commonly sold on the streets — yet they hold massive profit potential. Strawberry fruits In Kenya, strawberries are used by top food processing companies such as Brookside , Trufoods , Zesta , and KCC to make juices, yoghurts, jams, sauces , and other supermarket products. Because local production remains limited, most of these companies still import strawberries , creating a huge gap for local farmers to fill.

Complete Garlic Farming Guide: How to Grow Healthy and Flavorful Garlic (Allium sativum)

Garlic ( Allium sativum ) is one of the oldest cultivated crops and an essential kitchen staple worldwide. Known for its flavor, medicinal value, and numerous health benefits, garlic is surprisingly easy to grow once you understand its preferences and growth cycle. Whether you’re a beginner gardener or a commercial farmer, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about garlic farming—from soil preparation to harvesting and seed storage.

Greenhouse Farming in Kenya: The Future of Sustainable Agriculture

Agriculture has long been the backbone of Kenya’s economy. For over five decades, the nation’s growth and prosperity have been closely linked to agricultural success. Yet, despite numerous achievements, challenges such as climate change, land degradation, and unpredictable rainfall continue to hinder consistent productivity. To address these challenges, Kenya must adopt innovative, sustainable technologies that boost productivity and profitability—one of the most promising being greenhouse farming .

Transplanting Seedlings: A Step-by-Step Guide for Healthy Garden Growth

Transplanting seedlings is one of the most delicate yet rewarding parts of gardening. Whether you’re moving tender tomato seedlings from your windowsill to the garden or relocating a mature shrub, how you handle this process can determine the success of your plants. Transplanting might seem simple, but it requires patience, care, and the right timing. The key to success lies in two words: gentle and frequent —especially when it comes to watering.

Complete Guide to Lettuce Farming (Lactuca sativa)

Scientific Name: Lactuca sativa Popular Varieties: Bibb, Black Seeded Simpson, Buttercrunch, Butterhead, Cos, Crisphead, Green Leaf, Iceberg, Looseleaf, Mesclun Greens, Oakleaf, Parris Island, Red Leaf, Red Salad Bowl, and Romaine. With such a wide range of colors, textures, and flavors, lettuce is one of the most rewarding and diverse crops to grow. Whether you prefer crisp iceberg or tender butterhead, your salads will never taste the same again.

Complete Guide to Cucumber Farming: How to Grow Healthy and High-Yield Cucumbers

Binomial Name: Cucumis sativus Popular Varieties: Homemade Pickles, Marketeer, National Pickling, Straight 8 Cucumbers are among the easiest and most rewarding crops to grow—whether for pickling or slicing. With rich soil, full sun, and plenty of moisture, you can enjoy a continuous harvest of crisp, flavorful cucumbers throughout the growing season.

Turnip Farming Guide: How to Grow Healthy and Flavorful Turnips

Binomial Name: Brassica rapa Common Varieties: Purple Top, White Egg Turnips are fast-growing, nutrient-rich root vegetables that thrive in cool seasons. Whether you’re a home gardener or a commercial farmer, growing turnips can be rewarding with the right conditions and care. This guide covers everything you need to know—from soil preparation to harvesting and seed storage.

Complete Guide to Chilli Farming: How to Grow Healthy and Productive Pepper Plants

Binomial Name: Capsicum spp. Popular Varieties: Anaheim, Ancho, Black Hungarian, Cayenne, Habañero, Jalapeño, Large Red Cherry, Orange Habañero, Pimento, Poblano, Red Cherry, Serrano, Tabasco, Thai Hot, Yellow Wax. Capsicum Chillies, also known as peppers, are among the most versatile crops you can grow — used in cuisines, sauces, and spice blends around the world. Whether you’re growing them for home use or commercial production, success depends on proper soil preparation, ideal temperature, pest management, and post-harvest handling.

Complete Guide to Broccoli Farming: How to Grow Brassica oleracea Successfully

Binomial Name: Brassica oleracea Popular Varieties: Atlantic, Green Sprouting, De Cicco, Purple Sprouting, Waltham 29 Broccoli, a proud member of the cabbage family, is prized for its edible, immature flower heads. This superfood is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals—making it one of the most nutritious vegetables you can grow. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced farmer, this comprehensive guide will help you cultivate healthy, high-yielding broccoli crops.

Ultimate Beet Farming Guide: How to Grow Healthy, High-Yield Beets (Beta vulgaris)

Beets ( Beta vulgaris ) are one of the most versatile root vegetables, valued for their sweet, earthy flavor, vibrant color, and high nutritional value. From farm to table, beets can be used for salads, pickles, juicing, and animal feed—making them a profitable and rewarding crop for small- and large-scale farmers alike. This comprehensive beet farming guide covers everything you need to know—from soil requirements and planting techniques to pest control and harvesting.

The Ultimate Pumpkin Farming Guide: How to Grow Healthy, High-Yield Pumpkins

Binomial Name: Cucurbita pepo Popular Varieties: Atlantic Giant, Baby Pam, Big Max, Cinderella, Connecticut Field, Jack Be Little, Small Sugar, Spookie Pie 🌱 Introduction Pumpkin farming can be both rewarding and profitable—whether you're growing giant pumpkins for festivals or smaller, sweet ones for pies. These vibrant orange fruits thrive in warm conditions with plenty of space, sunlight, and fertile soil. With the right care and management, pumpkins are relatively easy to grow and store for months after harvest.

Complete Spinach Farming Guide: How to Grow Healthy Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)

Scientific Name: Spinacia oleracea 🥬 Introduction Spinach ( Spinacia oleracea ) is a nutrient-rich leafy vegetable known for its quick growth and high yields in cool climates. It thrives best in temperatures between 16°C and 24°C , producing lush, tender leaves packed with iron, vitamins, and fiber. Spinach vegetable Spinach is a cool-weather crop , meaning it does not perform well during hot summer months. When exposed to high temperatures or long daylight hours, spinach tends to bolt (flower and set seed prematurely), which reduces leaf quality and yield. With the right soil preparation, irrigation, and pest management, spinach can be grown successfully for both home use and commercial purposes.

Sukuma Wiki (Kale) Farming Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Scientific Name: Brassica oleracea var. acephala Sukuma siku hybrid kales Sukuma wiki—commonly known as kale—is one of Kenya’s most important leafy vegetables. Belonging to the cabbage family, this hardy crop is widely appreciated for its nutritional value, adaptability, and role in improving food security and livelihoods.

Complete Carrot Farming Guide: How to Grow Healthy, Flavorful Carrots (Daucus carota)

Carrots ( Daucus carota ) are among the most rewarding vegetables to grow—delicious, rich in Vitamin A, and surprisingly easy when you get the soil conditions right. Whether you’re a beginner gardener or an experienced farmer, this guide covers everything you need to know about carrot cultivation—from soil preparation to harvesting and seed storage.

Complete Guide to Passion Fruit Farming in Kenya: How to Grow, Manage, and Profit from This Tropical Treasure

Passion fruit farming has become one of the most profitable agribusiness ventures in Kenya, especially in the highlands of Kirinyaga, Nyeri, Kericho, and Sotik . Known for its unique aroma, tangy-sweet flavor, and high nutritional value , the fruit is widely used in making juices, squashes, cakes, ice creams, and desserts. Passion fruits Beyond its commercial value, passion fruit is packed with health benefits , making it a favorite among health-conscious consumers. Let’s explore everything you need to know about growing this rewarding crop—from choosing the right variety to maximizing your yields.