This archive report was first published on 11 January 2020.
January 11, 2020, marked a turning point for Martin Humbu, a 54-year-old electrician from Kenya. He had been struggling to find a lucrative business venture, but everything changed when he discovered the potential of chia seeds.
Chia seeds, a crop native to North America, have been gaining popularity in Kenya for their numerous health benefits. Humbu, who had previously worked as an electrician for Kenya Power, was intrigued by the seeds' potential and decided to do some research.
After learning about the benefits of chia seeds, including their high nutrient content, amino acids, and fibre, Humbu decided to take the plunge and start farming the seeds. He began by leasing a piece of land in Matasia and sought the guidance of a local farmer from Nakuru County who had experience growing chia.
However, Humbu soon realized that farming chia was not without its challenges. He had to find workers who were willing to learn the intricacies of chia farming, which was different from traditional maize or wheat farming. He also had to exercise caution during cultivation to ensure maximum yields.
Despite the challenges, Humbu persevered and eventually found success in marketing his chia seeds through social media. He created a Facebook page called Chia Republic, which helped him connect with potential clients and sell his seeds at a premium price of between Sh700 to Sh1,200 per kilogram.
Today, Humbu's chia farming business is thriving, and he attributes his success to his willingness to learn and adapt. His story serves as a testament to the potential of entrepreneurship and the importance of research in finding a lucrative business venture.
