Delicate balance of export agriculture and conservation

John Maina avocado farmer from Mutethia village in Meru county, tends his crop for export agriculture while conserving the environment.

In the neighbouring Mutethia village, John Maina dug a 30-foot water pan, enabling rainwater harvesting during dry spells. With a newfound water source, Kobi ventured into avocado cultivation, partnering with fellow farmers and embracing drip irrigation techniques.

"We started with 10,000 seedlings, provided by the community initiative, and with careful nurturing, they have grown into thriving avocado trees," Kobi shared. "With a ready market and proper guidance, we're aiming to expand our avocado cultivation, offering a sustainable future for our community."

Kobi emphasised the role of market access and community support, stating, "Now, we sell avocados by the kilo, ensuring fair profits for farmers. Each seedling fetches around Sh150 empowering local farmers and transforming our region."

Ephantus Mwai, Another farmer said: "I planted 73 avocado trees on one acre. It's been manageable, much easier than my previous attempts with maize and potatoes."

Previously he faced a challenging period marked by low crop prices and unpredictable weather patterns, which made traditional farming unsustainable. Adding to his struggles, an occupational hazard left him in a wheelchair, drastically altering his life.

Derick Mureithi, the regional production manager of the avocado department, at Keitt Exporters, said: "We have been exporting avocados annually. Presently, our export capacity stands at more than 500 containers."

Anticipating a future of growth, Mureith expressed confidence in the avocado market's potential.

"We encourage farmers not to fear entering the avocado value chain. We've established robust markets, especially in Europe. Over the next decade, we project that avocado exporters will have the capacity to export over 2,000 containers annually," Mureithi added.

Their primary market is in Europe, made inroads into the Middle East, the Far East, and this year entered the Chinese market.

"Specifically, our avocados are in demand in affluent countries like the Netherlands and Spain," Mureithi said.

Magret Wamboi, Laikipia County's crops officer, emphasised the collaborative efforts in implementing climate-smart agricultural technologies. "We must focus on agricultural practices that yield optimal results with minimal environmental impact," Wamboi stated.

Wamboi highlighted the collaboration between farmers and environmental conservation. "Farmers understand the necessity of preserving the environment. We're training them to maintain buffer zones, ensuring clean water flow and protecting both crops and wildlife," Wamboi said.

Misiko stressed, "We are focusing on sustainable farming techniques that protect soils, reduce erosion, and enhance biodiversity. Simultaneously, we're establishing sustainable markets, ensuring farmers not only earn but also contribute to a healthier environment."

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