In Kenya, there is a widespread misconception that farming is a ‘village man’s endeavor. Nevertheless, this village man’s business is a multi-billion dollar gold mine that few Kenyans are aware of. Corporate farms are regarded as the spine of Kenya’s economy, accounting for 24% of Kenya’s GDP and 65% of Kenya’s exports.
The farming industry has been evidenced to be a lifeline for Kenya’s underemployed, particularly the young people. It is a profitable business enterprise for those willing to investigate, invest funds, and gain farming expertise.
Are you considering a career in agriculture? Here’s how to start a farming practice in Kenya.
Start agriculture
Agriculture is not as easy as it looks, and growers face obstacles every day. They span from pest damage to inclement climate and monetary troubles. But these difficulties can be resolved with extensive research on your specialty and budgetary professionalism. The following are the best ways to avoid any risk in the farming business.
Recognize your product
Before you start your agricultural production, you need to know what kind of crops you want. There are numerous agricultural opportunities available, including vegetable cultivation, chicken raising, egg production, potato cultivation, cattle rearing, and fruit gardening. Doing a market survey of producers and consumers of different goods in whatever area of Kenya you are in can help you make a decision. You can also find a specialized segment that few growers have entered, such as earthworm raising.
Finances
Many successful entrepreneurs began their organizations with personal deposits or loans from lenders or venture capitalists. The positive thing about industrial agriculture is that not many ideas require a large investment. For instance, if you want to begin poultry ranching, you would need decent rails, chicks, feed, a sanctuary, and a water system, all of which will cost at least Ksh. 30,000. In contrast, mushroom planting can be initiated with as little as Ksh. 10,000. Dairying, for example, requires a minimum of Ksh. 100,000. Depending on your idea, conduct extensive market research, speak with existing business owners in that niche, and determine the minimum sum you need to raise.
Register your company
To formalize your business and make it simpler to transact with local companies such as grocery stores, your agriculture will still need to be licensed and set up as a corporation, a sole trader, or a partnership. It is an essential part of the process of setting up a business and provides a wide range of benefits for entrepreneurs.
The process of obtaining an agriculture license and registering your business in Kenya is relatively straightforward. You will need to apply for a license from the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, and provide the necessary documents and information. Once the application is approved, you will be issued a license and can begin the process of registering your business.
Establish your company
Once you have all of the relevant paperwork, you can start your company, whether it is selling vegetables, eggs, or chicken. Make sure you advertise your company tactically to reach as many individuals as possible. Use social media for digital advertising, and relying on your product category, you can create a blog and an e-shop for added competence.
Future of agriculture in Kenya
Agriculture in Kenya is an important part of the country’s economy and has been a major contributor to its development. It is the backbone of the Kenyan economy, employing more than two-thirds of the population. In addition to providing food and nutrition security, it also contributes significantly to the country’s GDP.
The Kenyan government has taken several steps to improve the agricultural sector. They have implemented various policies and initiatives to promote productivity, such as the National Agriculture and Livestock Policy, the National Irrigation Policy, and the National Food Security and Nutrition Policy. These policies are aimed at improving the quality of agricultural products, increasing productivity, and providing better access to markets. In addition, the government has also provided incentives to farmers to adopt modern agricultural practices.
The future of agriculture in Kenya looks very promising. With the implementation of the aforementioned policies, the country can expect to see an increase in agricultural productivity and improved food security.
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