Top 10 Most Profitable Crops To Grow In Kenya (2024)

Growing crops can be a profitable business venture for farmers. The sale of crops can provide income for farmers and contribute to the local economy. Additionally, the agricultural industry creates jobs in various sectors, such as farming, transportation, processing, and marketing.

The most profitable crops to grow in Kenya include Avocado, Tea, Coffee, Macadamia, Passion Fruit, French beans, Mango, Pineapple, Maize and Green Grams.

Most Profitable Crops to Grow in Kenya

1. Avocado

Kenya is the world’s largest exporter of avocados, and the demand for the fruit is growing rapidly due to its health benefits and culinary uses. Avocado farming is a profitable venture in the country as it is one of the most profitable crops to grow in Kenya.

The demand for avocados in the international market has been increasing due to the rising popularity of medical benefits. The country’s favourable climate, fertile soils, and availability of cheap labour make it suitable for avocado farming.

2. Tea

Tea apart from being highly profitable in Kenya is used for medical purposes. Tea is rich in antioxidants, which are beneficial to human health. Regular tea consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of several chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer.

3. Coffee

Coffee is a valuable cash crop for Kenyan farmers, with the country known for producing high-quality Arabica coffee beans. Coffee crops typically take about 3-4 years to reach full maturity and start producing a significant yield.

However, some coffee varieties may take up to 5 years to mature. The growth rate of coffee crops can also depend on factors such as soil quality, climate, and farming practices. Once established, coffee trees can continue producing for several decades with proper care and maintenance

4. Macadamia

Macadamia nuts are highly profitable, with Kenya being the world’s third-largest producer of macadamia nuts. Macadamia trees have a productive life of up to 50 years, providing farmers with a consistent source of income over a long period. Also, once established, macadamia trees require minimal maintenance, making them a low-cost crop to grow.

5. Passion Fruit

Passion fruit is highly profitable, with high demand for its juice and fruit in local and international markets. Passion fruit is packed with nutrients like vitamins A, C, and potassium, which are essential for maintaining good health. Also, the fruit is rich in antioxidants that help to protect the body against free radical damage.

6. French beans

Another valuable crop to grow in Kenya is the French bean. French beans are a high-value export crop, with a growing demand in European and Asian markets. Kenya has favourable climatic conditions for growing French beans, including warm temperatures and well-drained soils.

French beans are a high-value crop that can fetch good prices in both local and export markets, providing a good source of income for farmers. In addition, they have a short growing period of around 60 to 90 days and can be grown year-round, allowing for multiple harvests per year. French beans are also relatively easy to grow and maintain, making them a good option for both smallholder and large-scale farmers

7. Mango

Mango trees are highly profitable, with high demand for fresh mangoes, juice, and dried fruits. Mango trees have a long lifespan, with the potential to produce fruit for up to 50 years, providing a sustainable source of income for farmers.

Mangoes also have a high nutritional value, providing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a popular choice for both local consumption and export markets. With proper cultivation practices, mango farming can be a lucrative business in Kenya.

8. Pineapple

Pineapple is a valuable cash crop for Kenyan farmers, with the country being one of the largest exporters of fresh pineapples in Africa.

The government has put in place policies and initiatives to support pineapple farmers in Kenya, such as the provision of extension services, access to credit facilities, and promotion of value addition through processing

9. Maize

Maize is a staple food crop in Kenya, and high yields can be profitable for farmers who can sell the surplus to markets. One of the major advantages of growing maize is that it provides food security for many households in Kenya, particularly in rural areas.

It is a good source of carbohydrates and other essential nutrients and can be consumed in various forms such as boiled maize, roasted maize, and maize flour.

10. Green Grams

Green grams, also known as mung beans, are another of the most profitable crops to grow in Kenya. It is a high-value crop with growing demand in local and international markets.

Green grams have a short maturity period, usually taking between 60-90 days to mature, which allows farmers to harvest and sell them quickly.

Related:

• Top 10 Most Developed Towns In Kenya
• Advantages Of Being A Cadet In Kenya
• Top 10 Most Profitable Trees To Grow In Kenya

Conclusion

In Kenya, growing crops helps to maintain soil health and fertility, which in turn supports biodiversity and ecological balance. Apart from that, growing crops can be highly profitable in the country.

The most profitable crops to grow in Kenya have been highlighted. You can check them out to make informed decisions.