Farming on a small scale in Kenya can be highly profitable with the right crops.BEST PRODUCE 2024

Farming on a small scale in Kenya can be highly profitable with the right crops. Here are some of the best produce to farm in 2024:

1. Tomatoes

• Demand: High year-round demand in local markets, restaurants, and hotels.
• Varieties: Choose high-yield and disease-resistant varieties.
• Growing Conditions: Requires well-drained, fertile soils with regular watering.

2. Kales (Sukuma Wiki)

• Demand: Staple food in many Kenyan households.
• Growing Conditions: Thrives in a range of soils and climates with adequate rainfall or irrigation.
• Turnaround Time: Short growing period, allowing for multiple harvests per year.

3. Capsicum (Bell Peppers)

• Demand: Increasing demand in urban areas and for export.
• Growing Conditions: Requires well-drained soils and warm temperatures.
• Profitability: High market prices, especially for organic produce.

4. Strawberries

• Demand: High demand in urban areas and for value-added products like jams and juices.
• Growing Conditions: Requires well-drained, loamy soils and adequate water supply.
• Profitability: High returns with proper management and marketing.

5. Avocados

• Demand: Growing domestic and international demand, especially for the Hass variety.
• Growing Conditions: Thrives in well-drained, sandy or loamy soils with moderate rainfall.
• Profitability: High export potential and long-term returns.

6. Garlic

• Demand: Increasing use in households and restaurants.
• Growing Conditions: Requires fertile, well-drained soils and cool temperatures.
• Profitability: High market prices and relatively low production costs.

7. Passion Fruits

• Demand: High demand in local and export markets.
• Growing Conditions: Requires well-drained soils and warm temperatures.
• Profitability: High returns with good management practices.

8. Mushrooms

• Demand: Growing demand in urban areas and for export.
• Growing Conditions: Requires controlled environment, making it suitable for small-scale farming.
• Profitability: High returns with relatively low space requirements.

9. Herbs (Basil, Mint, Rosemary)

• Demand: Increasing demand in urban markets, restaurants, and for export.
• Growing Conditions: Requires well-drained soils and moderate temperatures.
• Profitability: High returns with proper marketing and value addition.

10. Chilies

• Demand: High demand in local and export markets.
• Growing Conditions: Thrives in warm climates with well-drained soils.
• Profitability: High market prices and export potential.

Tips for Success:

1. Market Research: Understand the demand and market trends for each crop.
2. Quality Seeds: Use high-quality, disease-resistant seeds or seedlings.
3. Proper Management: Implement good agricultural practices, including pest and disease control.
4. Irrigation: Ensure a reliable water supply, especially during dry seasons.
5. Value Addition: Consider processing or packaging your produce to increase profitability.
6. Networking: Build connections with buyers, cooperatives, and exporters.

By focusing on high-demand and high-value crops, small-scale farmers in Kenya can maximize their profits and ensure sustainable farming practices.