Agribusiness in Kenya continues to thrive, with farmers now accessing international markets and employing advanced technologies. Among the myriad of crops, six stand out for their profitability and growth potential.
1. Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit, a new entrant in Kenyan agriculture, offers immense profit potential. An acre can support 2,000 vines, each yielding around 30,000 kg annually. With current farm gate prices at Ksh.800 per kilo, an acre could generate Ksh.24 million annually. As more farmers join the market, prices may stabilize around Ksh.400 per kilo, still providing substantial earnings of Ksh.12 million per acre.
2. Passion Fruit
Passion fruit farming is a lucrative venture with high demand from health-conscious consumers and juice companies. A hectare can yield up to 50,000 kg, with a market price of Ksh.50 per kilo, translating to over Ksh.2 million per hectare annually. The crop's staggered ripening allows for continuous harvesting and income.
3. Strawberries
Strawberries are in high demand for their flavor, used in various products like yogurt and ice cream. An eighth of an acre can yield 30-50 kg weekly, selling at Ksh.200 per kilo, potentially earning Ksh.40,000 per month. The crop matures in 70 days and continues to produce for up to three years.
4. Mushrooms
Mushrooms, particularly exotic varieties like oyster and shiitake, offer impressive returns. They can be grown indoors using agricultural waste substrates, producing around 10 kg per square foot annually. At Ksh.400 per kilo, a 10’x10′ space can generate Ksh.400,000 yearly. Local growers have an advantage due to the perishability of mushrooms.
5. Onions
Despite fluctuating prices, onions remain profitable. One acre can yield 20,000 kg in five months. Even at a low price of Ksh.20 per kilo, revenue can reach Ksh.400,000, with production costs around Ksh.120,000. With potential price spikes, earnings could significantly increase.
6. Pawpaws
Pawpaws are resilient to dry conditions and pests, making them a low-maintenance crop. An acre can support 1,100 trees, each yielding 40-50 kg annually. Selling at Ksh.30 per kilo, an acre can produce Ksh.1.2 to 1.5 million per year. Initial setup costs are relatively low, around Ksh.100,000 per acre.
Additionally, kiwi fruit and blackberry farming in Kenya present new profitable ventures worth exploring. These crops offer potential for high returns as demand increases and more farmers adopt their cultivation.