The world of international trade is challenging and breaking into the export market is no walk in the park. However, Gideon Njoroge Mburu, a determined young entrepreneur and an IT graduate, has not only embraced the challenge but has excelled in it.
Here is the story of Gideon, the founder and managing director of Lui Farm, and his journey to establishing the multi-million business as a young man as told by WoK.
From Joblessness To Success
Like many young Kenyans, Gideon embarked on his professional journey with the hope of securing a job in his field of study after graduating from university.
However, faced with lack of opportunities, he took a job with a prominent fresh produce export company. Little did he know that this experience would spark his passion for the export market.
Driven by his newfound enthusiasm, Gideon made the bold decision to venture out on his own, but not without facing challenges along the way, including the lengthy process of company registration and meeting stringent regulatory requirements set by KEPHIS.
Discovering the Right Path
Initially, the Lui Farm MD started his farming journey by cultivating snow peas and sugar snaps on a significant scale.
However, he soon realized that the real demand in the market was for French beans, which accounted for a staggering 90% of Kenya’s vegetable exports.
Adapting to market dynamics, Lui Farm shifted its focus to become a leading grower of high-quality fresh fruits and vegetables.
The Lui Farm Export Operations
Today, their operations encompass the production and processing of various vegetables such as extra-fine beans, snow peas, sugar snaps, baby corn, as well as fruits like passion fruits.
Their produce is primarily destined for European and Middle Eastern countries, where discerning consumers appreciate the finest quality.
Sailing through challenges
Gideon’s entrepreneurial journey was not without its fair share of challenges. Lui Farm faced financial crises that momentarily crippled their operations.
However, their resilience and determination allowed them to bounce back. The turning point came when they secured a significant client who not only bought their produce in large volumes but also ensured prompt payment.
Furthermore, to meet the demand for French beans, Lui Farm adopted a contractual farming model.
On Partnering With Local Farmers and Quality Checks
Lui Farm recognizes that their farmers are the backbone of their success. Gideon actively engages with the farmers, overseeing their activities and ensuring adherence to high-quality standards.
To support their farmers, Lui Farm invested in a dedicated technical team consisting of agronomists and field officers who provide guidance and assistance.
They supply farmers with seeds, fertilizers, and farming equipment, while also conducting regular training sessions to enhance their skills.
Moreover, Lui Farm voluntarily conducts food tests every two weeks to guarantee the utmost quality.
This proactive approach was born out of a past incident where one of their consignments was intercepted due to Maximum Residue Level (MRL) issues.
Making a Difference in the Society
Lui Farm’s impact extends beyond business success. They are committed to giving back to the community and empowering the next generation.
Through their FICHA AIBU INITIATIVE, Lui Farm funds the purchase of school uniforms and learning aids for underprivileged school-going children in farming areas.
They have successfully completed two phases, benefiting over 60 pupils, and are currently rolling out the third phase at Vota Primary in Machakos County.
Additionally, Lui Farm sponsors the Super Junior Kids football club, supporting young aspiring footballers by providing game kits and organizing tournaments.
Looking Ahead
With an ambitious vision to become the leading export company, Lui Farm aims to expand its reach into global markets in the next five years.
Guided by the belief that a strong brand is built on quality, they continue to produce high-quality and healthy French beans for international consumption.
Gideon emphasizes the importance of aspiring exporters starting with farming, understanding the intricacies of producing safe and premium produce for the international market.
By partnering with farmers from different regions in Kenya, Lui Farm has bridged the gap in production capacity. These farmers had access to a reliable source of water, a crucial requirement for cultivating French beans.
To ensure consistent quality, Lui Farm meticulously sorts, grades, and performs quality checks on their produce at the Horticultural Crops Directorate’s pack houses. The beans are trimmed to equal sizes, dipped in a salad sanitizer to prolong their shelf life, and finally packed and labeled.
