This archive report was first published on 7 May 2021.
A Murang'a Youth's Success in Strawberry Farming ¶
As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, many young people have been forced to find alternative ways to earn a living. For Edna Njoki Gachane, a Murang'a youth, strawberry farming has been a game-changer.
Edna lost her job in Nairobi during the pandemic and relocated back to Murang'a, where she and her husband decided to venture into farming. They initially considered growing garlic, but after researching, they realized it was not a viable option. They then settled on strawberries, which require high initial capital but have low management costs and a steady harvest for three years.
Edna and her husband leased a quarter-acre piece of land in St Mary's village, near Murang'a town, and did extensive research on strawberry farming. They consulted an agronomist, Mr. Kimani, who carried out soil and water tests, supervised land preparation, and outsourced seedlings from Kiambu and Nyeri. They chose the ever-bearing Chanderia variety, which is suitable for Murang'a's hot and wet climate.
Edna's farm, which she calls 'Ami's farm', has been a success, with the couple breaking even just six months after starting. They sell runners to farmers around the area for Shs.50 each and have a steady harvest of 20 grams per week per plant, which is approximately 60kgs per week. However, they face challenges such as caterpillar and grasshopper attacks, which they combat using rabbits' urine.
Edna urges young people to venture into agriculture, citing its potential for employment and income generation. She advises them to start small, using land belonging to their parents or guardians, and to cultivate crops such as coriander or kales and spinach, which can be sold for a good price.
By Florence Kinyua and Purity Mugo, Kenya News Agency, published on May 7, 2021.
