After a lifetime spent in the hustle and bustle of city life, John Magaiwa, a 68-year-old retired accountant, decided to return to his roots in Mabera village, Migori County.
Embracing the tranquility of rural living, he started on a mission that would not only change his life but also inspire an agricultural revolution in his community.
Upon his return to Mabera village, Magaiwa delved into the world of farming, exploring various agricultural opportunities.
His years of expertise in financial matters did not deter him from venturing into the soil, for he believed that agriculture held the promise of substantial rewards.
After careful consideration and extensive market research, he chose an unconventional path – pineapple farming.
Pineapple farming, an unfamiliar territory in his village, became Magaiwa’s passion. Undeterred by the lack of local expertise, he embarked on a determined quest to acquire high-quality pineapple suckers.
Faced with challenges in finding suitable planting material, he journeyed to Tanzania, where he procured the quality suckers he needed to initiate his pineapple venture.
Planting these precious pineapple suckers on a meticulously prepared 10-acre section of his land, Magaiwa implemented expert techniques.
He ensured the spacing between plants was optimal, adhering to the advice of agronomist James Odongo, who emphasized the significance of proper spacing in maximizing yields.
With his dedication and adherence to best practices, Magaiwa’s farm soon bloomed into a vibrant pineapple plantation, adorning the landscape with the promise of a fruitful harvest.
Magaiwa’s dedication did not end with planting; he meticulously utilized organic resources to nurture his pineapple plants.
Employing 20 tippers of nutrient-rich cow dung as organic manure, he provided his pineapples with the nourishment they needed to thrive.
In a region where pineapple farming was a rarity, Magaiwa’s efforts have not gone unnoticed.
Local communities have begun to recognize the potential of this tropical fruit, with some even directly visiting his farm to purchase fresh pineapples.
Magaiwa’s vision extends beyond the immediate harvest.
He plans to sell each pineapple for a competitive price, ranging between Ksh100 and Ksh150.
Moreover, he dreams of expanding his pineapple cultivation to 20 acres, envisioning a future where his farm becomes a hub of agricultural innovation and prosperity.
Looking ahead, Magaiwa’s ambitions do not stop at cultivation alone.
He plans to establish a mini pineapple juice processing unit, adding value to his produce and creating additional income streams.