Makueni County in Kenya has earned a remarkable reputation for its thriving fruit cultivation industry, offering a cornucopia of delicious fruits such as pawpaws, mangoes, and oranges.
These fruits have not only become a staple in the county but have also significantly contributed to the economic well-being of local farmers, with one such farmer being Benson Mbithe.
Here is his story as told by WOK.
Benson Mbithe’s journey into their farm began seven years ago when they decided to embark on this fruitful endeavor.
“We started cultivating these fruit trees seven years ago, and patience is key in this business. We plant various varieties, including ‘pixie’ oranges, regular oranges, lemons, mangoes, and even papayas.” Mbithe shares
Their journey began with the purchase of seedlings from Kalamba in Matiliku. Each seedling cost them a modest 30 Kenyan Shillings, a small investment that would yield abundant returns over time.
Before the seedlings find their home in the soil, meticulous land preparation is essential.
The land is cleared and plowed, with the family opting for organic cow dung as their fertilizer of choice.
This organic approach to farming ensures the health of the soil, the plants, and, ultimately, the fruits.
“We source our cow dung locally, right here on our farm. We prefer this over buying commercial fertilizers.” Mbithe explains
Once the land is primed and ready, it’s time to dig holes for the seedlings.
These holes are approximately three feet wide and four feet deep, providing ample space for the young plants to take root.
After planting, patience becomes the name of the game.
It takes three to four years for these fruit trees to mature and begin bearing fruit. The waiting period may be long, but the reward is sweet.
One of the standout performers on their farm is the pawpaw tree, which yields over 50 kilograms of fruit in a single season.
“A single pawpaw tree produces two cartons, with each carton weighing 27 kilograms. So, in total, two cartons of pawpaws weigh a bountiful 54 kilograms.” He claims
Comparatively, oranges are larger and heavier than pawpaws.
“Oranges are different; they are quite hefty. One carton of oranges typically weighs nearly 30 to 40 kilograms. A single tree can yield three or four boxes,” Mbithe elaborates, highlighting the diversity of their fruit crop.
While the fruits of their labor are undoubtedly sweet, the journey is not without its challenges.
Like all farmers, they face seasonal variations in yields. Factors such as diseases and destructive pests can impact their harvests.
However, they have developed strategies, including the use of pesticides, to combat these challenges.
Mbithe stresses on the importance of vigilance, stating, “We monitor our crops closely, and as soon as we detect any signs of disease or pest infestation, we take action by applying appropriate treatments.”
In addition to pests and diseases, Makueni County experiences recurrent droughts, posing yet another challenge for farmers in the region.
Furthermore, the cost of fuel for water pumps, essential for irrigating the crops during dry spells, can be a financial burden for smaller-scale farmers.
