Hass avocados have emerged as Kenya’s “new green gold,” captivating farmers with their significant health benefits and the impressive financial returns they yield from just a single tree.
Avocado farming has gained traction across the country, appealing to farmers of all generations, including senior citizens like Steve. Despite being a small-scale farmer, Steve has managed to sustain his lifestyle, provide education for his children, and support his family by cultivating avocados on his modest plot of land.
Steve’s journey into farming began in 1989 when he left his public service job at the age of 32. Initially, he grew kale and spinach on three acres of land. Later, he expanded into tea farming on five acres. Although switching careers was a challenging decision, Steve took the leap with determination and the support of his wife, who continued with her career.
“I decided to transfer my children from private academies to public schools due to financial constraints. My wife and I agreed that she would continue working to help us balance our needs,” Steve explained.
Farming initially proved lucrative for Steve, especially with clients traveling from far-off areas to purchase his produce. He fondly recalled earning KSh 30,000 from just one weekly kale harvest. Encouraged by his success, Steve transitioned to avocado farming. He purchased seedlings from Kakuzi and planted them, marking the start of his journey with Hass avocados. Today, those original trees yield between 1,000 and 2,000 avocados per season.
“These trees are truly golden,” Steve remarked. “To succeed in farming, you must love the soil and the crops you nurture.”
Currently, Steve manages a flourishing farm with nearly 700 Hass avocado trees. He emphasized that avocado farming is a promising venture, as the crop thrives in diverse regions of Kenya as long as water is available. Furthermore, the demand for avocados is high, both locally and internationally.
Steve advised aspiring farmers to purchase high-quality seedlings from trusted sources such as Kakuzi. He also sells seedlings on his farm, priced between KSh 100 and KSh 300 each. To ensure the health and productivity of his trees, Steve employs up to five workers daily, assigning them tasks such as watering, monitoring, and spraying the trees with blue copper for disease prevention.
“Avocado farming has transformed my life,” Steve shared enthusiastically. “I’ve been able to educate all my children through the proceeds from this business.”
Grateful for the success avocados have brought him, Steve has no intention of diversifying into other cash crops. For him, avocado farming is not just a livelihood but a passion and a testament to the rewards of hard work and dedication.
