This archive report was first published on 4 November 2019.
Regina Mungai, a Kenyan returnee from the US, has found success in herbs farming in Nakuru County, where she cultivates mint and basil for export to Europe.
After years living in Massachusetts, Regina returned to Kenya and established Little Bloomers Ltd, a company that grows herbs on a six-acre farm in Begi village, about seven kilometers from Gilgil town.
Regina's decision to switch from tomato farming to herbs has been a lucrative one, with her mint crop earning her more than double the amount she made from tomatoes on a similar size of land.
"I will be harvesting from here tomorrow. I am looking forward to a bumper harvest," Regina told Daily Nation last week.
Regina's aim is to export herbs directly to the market, which she believes will enable her to earn more and employ more people. She currently has 20 workers.
Experts say herbs farming is a venture that is yet to be exploited in Kenya, with the potential to create thousands of employment opportunities.
Agronomist Ruth Munyoro advises farmers to study the market before deciding on which crop to start with, and notes that herb farming is simple as long as the farmer is well prepared.
