In Kirinyaga County, Kenya, a group of banana farmers has transformed their economic prospects through collective marketing and value addition. Formed in 2010, the Karinga Banana Growers group has empowered over 30 farmers from Karinga village, leading to significant improvements in income and market reach.
Freciah Kinyua, the chairperson of Karinga Banana Growers, began her banana farming journey in 1999, cultivating approximately 2.5 acres of land. Since then, the establishment of the marketing group has been a game-changer. “Selling our produce collectively has given us considerable bargaining power,” Kinyua explains. This cooperative approach contrasts sharply with the individual selling methods of the past, where farmers struggled with low prices and lack of influence over market conditions.
One of the most notable achievements of the group is the successful transition to value-added products. By processing bananas into flour, the farmers have increased their earnings significantly. Green bananas typically fetch Sh16 per kilo, while the value-added flour commands up to Sh200 per kilo. The processed flour is used to fortify sorghum, millet, and maize flour, which has expanded their market reach. The group’s efforts in value addition are not stopping at flour; plans are underway to diversify further with banana wine, chips, and crisps.
Kinyua’s dedication to banana farming includes growing a variety of indigenous bananas and plantains, which are relatively new to Kenya. The biggest bunches of bananas can weigh up to 70 kilograms, though the average bunch is around 30 kilograms. Kinyua highlights the superior financial returns of banana farming compared to other cash crops like coffee, tea, or maize. “Bananas offer better earnings,” she asserts, reflecting the group’s success in leveraging their produce’s profitability.
Jane Wanjiru, another member of the group, underscores the impact of collective bargaining. “Being part of the group allows us to set our own prices,” she says. This collective power contrasts with the previous scenario where brokers would exploit individual farmers by dictating prices. The group’s unity ensures that they maintain control over pricing, leading to better financial outcomes for all members.
The value addition process involves several meticulous steps. Bananas are weighed, cleaned, peeled, sliced, cleaned again, dried, and then ground into flour. Remarkably, ten kilos of peeled bananas yield only one kilo of flour, emphasizing the intensive nature of the process. Nothing goes to waste; peelings, stems, and leaves are repurposed as fodder for animals, highlighting a commitment to sustainability.
The benefits of value addition extend beyond increased earnings. Processing bananas into flour and other products offers a longer shelf life, which is particularly advantageous for managing seasonal fluctuations. During the rainy season, when banana production is high, processing and storage minimize post-harvest losses and ensure a steady supply of products.
Despite these advancements, banana farming in Kirinyaga is not without challenges. Irrigation remains a significant issue, as the farmers cannot rely solely on rain-fed agriculture. The scarcity of water for irrigation impacts production consistency, necessitating additional investments in water management. Additionally, the rising cost of labor is a growing concern. “Initially, we paid casual laborers Sh300 per day, but the rate has now increased to between Sh400 and Sh500 per day,” Muriithi explains. This cost hike, driven by the high cost of living, adds to the financial pressures on farmers.
Pests and diseases also pose ongoing threats to banana cultivation. Farmers mitigate these risks through regular spraying and other preventive measures. The challenges faced by the Karinga Banana Growers highlight the broader issues of agricultural sustainability and economic viability in the region.
Looking ahead, the group is enthusiastic about expanding their ventures. Plans include distributing branded and packaged banana crisps, chips, and flour to schools, hospitals, supermarkets, and other outlets. This expansion aims to further enhance market reach and profitability while addressing the challenges of seasonal production.
The success of the Karinga Banana Growers group serves as a model for other farming communities. By embracing collective marketing and value addition, these farmers have not only improved their income but also strengthened their market presence. Their story is a testament to the power of cooperation and innovation in overcoming the challenges of modern agriculture.
