Meru County is experiencing a transformative shift in its agricultural landscape, with banana farming emerging as a significant economic driver. Traditionally known for miraa (khat) farming, the region now boasts flourishing banana plantations, rivaling the Gusii region, which has historically been Kenya’s hub for banana production. This change is particularly evident in areas like Imenti, where vast tracts of farmland are now dedicated to bananas, alongside other crops like coffee.
Women have become the backbone of this agricultural evolution, spearheading both the cultivation and marketing of bananas. Their involvement has not only improved household incomes but also empowered them economically and socially. These women-led initiatives are crucial for ensuring that bananas reach markets both locally and beyond, turning the crop into a key pillar of the regional economy.
One of the main advantages of banana farming in Meru is its compatibility with intercropping. In coffee-growing areas such as the three Imenti sub-counties, Kiegoi in Igembe South, and Michiimikuru in Tigania, bananas are grown alongside coffee. This practice maximizes land use and diversifies income sources for farmers. The estimated annual production of bananas in Meru is approximately 400,000 tons, with a market value of around Sh6 billion. This scale of production underscores the crop’s critical role in supporting livelihoods and contributing to the local economy.
Banana farming has spurred the growth of commercial hubs such as Ntharene, Kamachege, Miruriiri, and Kanyakine, which have become vibrant centers of economic activity. These markets attract traders, transporters, and service providers, creating a ripple effect that benefits the entire community. Youth are also gaining employment opportunities in transportation and other parts of the banana value chain, injecting further vitality into the local economy.
Despite its success, banana farming in Meru faces challenges that threaten its sustainability. Farmers often struggle with low prices for their produce, which are influenced by brokers who dominate the market. These middlemen are accused of offering unfair prices, leaving farmers with minimal profits. For instance, a half-kilogram of bananas sells for only Sh20, a price many farmers find insufficient to cover their costs.
Another challenge is the lack of proper storage and processing facilities. Farmers are often forced to sell their produce quickly to avoid losses, which limits their bargaining power. Many of the bananas end up being purchased by traders and food companies at low prices, exacerbating the economic strain on farmers.
There is a growing call for government intervention to address these issues. Establishing value addition facilities could be transformative, enabling farmers to process bananas into products like flour, chips, and juice, which would fetch higher prices. Improved infrastructure, including better roads and transportation networks, could enhance access to more lucrative urban markets. Additionally, the development of storage facilities and cold chains would help reduce post-harvest losses and improve the quality of bananas reaching the market.
Training and capacity building are equally important for empowering farmers to adopt better farming practices. Agricultural extension services and educational programs could help improve yields and ensure the production of high-quality bananas. These initiatives, coupled with efforts to streamline market access and eliminate exploitative brokers, could significantly enhance the profitability of banana farming in Meru.
The future of banana farming in Meru is bright, with the potential to become a cornerstone of the region’s economy. With adequate support from the government and other stakeholders, this sector could transform the lives of thousands of women and youth, providing them with a sustainable source of income and fostering long-term economic growth.
