This archive report was first published on 5 January 2022.
Spicing Up Kenya, One Chili at a Time ¶
As the COVID-19 pandemic ravaged Kenya, Njoki Muriuki, a former travel specialist, found herself out of work. But she didn't let that stop her. With a passion for cooking and a desire to create a sustainable business, Njoki turned her attention to the spice trade.
Published on January 5, 2022, Njoki's journey began with a simple idea: to create a high-quality chili paste using locally sourced ingredients. She enrolled in a course at the Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute (KIRDI) to learn the art of spice processing and began experimenting with different recipes.
Today, Njoki's company, Kijo's Garden, is a leading producer of chili paste in Kenya. Her product, which is certified by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (Kebs), is made from a blend of spices, including chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and lemon juice. The paste is then pasteurized to ensure food safety and packaged in airtight containers for distribution.
Njoki's chili paste has gained a loyal following in Kenya, with customers praising its unique flavor and aroma. The company has also partnered with local farmers to source high-quality ingredients, providing them with a steady income and promoting sustainable agriculture practices.
As Njoki continues to grow her business, she remains committed to her core values of quality, sustainability, and community engagement. Her story is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship and the impact it can have on local communities.
