Farming in Kenya has often been perceived as a high-risk and labor-intensive pursuit, causing many to shy away from it as their main source of income. Despite this, there are individuals who, against all odds, rise above the challenges and achieve extraordinary success in the agricultural industry.
One such inspiring figure is Moses Karimi Githaiga, a primary school dropout who defied adversity and became a millionaire through garlic farming. His story proves that with determination, passion, and innovation, anyone can turn their dreams into profitable ventures.
Born and raised in the rural village of Kiawara, Kieni Sub County, Nyeri County, Moses Karimi faced an early setback when financial constraints prevented him from completing his primary school education. Rather than giving up, he chose to enter the workforce at a young age. He moved to Kisumu city and worked as a hawker and knife sharpener in the Manyatta and Nyalenda slums.
Despite his hustle, Karimi’s true interest lay in farming. During his busy days, he often visited cybercafés to research garlic farming and its market potential. Armed with the knowledge from these online resources, Karimi made a bold decision to return to his village and pursue his passion for agriculture.
In 2012, Karimi embarked on his garlic farming journey with just a quarter-acre of land, planting 25 kilograms of garlic. By applying innovative techniques he learned from his research, such as propagating his own seeds to shorten the growing cycle, he was able to harvest an impressive 800 kilograms in only four months. Selling the garlic at Ksh100 per kilogram, he earned Ksh80,000 in his very first season.
Encouraged by this success, Karimi expanded his garlic farm to a full acre of land in 2013. That season, he harvested an astonishing 4,800 kilograms of garlic, earning Ksh480,000. Always thinking ahead, he reserved 20% of his harvest for seed propagation, ensuring the sustainability and growth of his business.
Karimi’s fortune continued to flourish as he expanded his farm. By 2013, he had acquired 13 acres of land and established Saumu Centre Limited, his own farming company. During an exclusive interview with Business Daily, he revealed a remarkable achievement – he earned Ksh4.8 million in just four months.
As his farm grew, Karimi created employment opportunities for his community. He employed ten permanent staff members and hired an additional 13 casual laborers during peak seasons. Through his success, he not only improved his own financial situation but also contributed to the local economy.
Karimi’s entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond his personal farm. Recognizing the potential to uplift others, he began training over 100 farmers from surrounding counties like Meru, Kirinyaga, and Embu in garlic farming. For a fee of Ksh3,000 per session, he provided farmers with reading materials and reference guides.
Karimi’s commitment to mentorship and knowledge-sharing had a transformative effect on the agricultural community, empowering farmers to enhance their practices and increase their success.
