Chili Farming in Kapsabet, Nandi County a Thriving Venture for the youth!
-Within his one-acre greenhouse in Kapsabet, Dominic cultivates two chili varieties: Serenade and Bird’s Eye.-
Chili farming in Nandi County /Courtesy Jesse Abisheck
Chili farming is a rewarding but demanding endeavor that requires substantial capital, energy, and a dedicated workforce. Successful cultivation of chili plants hinges on ideal conditions such as warm, well-drained, fertile soil with ample sunlight and moisture retention, slightly acidic in nature, to ensure optimal yields.
In Kapsabet, Nandi County, I had the privilege of meeting Dominic Ratos, a Kenyan citizen of Seychellois origin, who embarked on a chili farming venture in Kitengela, Kajiado County, three years ago. His journey into chili farming has been marked by dedication and a keen understanding of the market demand.
“I initiated my chili farming journey in Kitengela before relocating to Kapsabet in January this year to expand my chili production. The surge in demand motivated me to specialize in chili farming over other crops, and I’m contemplating further expansion,” shares Dominic.
Within his one-acre greenhouse in Kapsabet, Dominic cultivates two chili varieties: Serenade and Bird’s Eye. “I have strategically planted two types of chili seedlings – the petite Serenade and the fiery Bird’s Eye – within a one-acre plot divided into five greenhouses and one open-air section. Placing one outside the greenhouse allows me to compare yields in shaded and unshaded conditions, a vital consideration given Kapsabet’s variable climate, where chili typically takes 5 to 8 months to mature,” he explains.
Each of his greenhouses accommodates 2,000 seedlings, which are meticulously harvested and repackaged into 50kg units. Pricing varies, with Serenade fetching Ksh 100 per kilogram due to its smaller size, while Bird’s Eye commands a higher price of Ksh 280 per kilogram for its bold spiciness.
Dominic reflects on the ease of finding a ready market for his produce, both locally and abroad. “Market challenges are virtually non-existent, thanks to the high demand that encouraged my expansion from Kitengela to Kapsabet. Most of my chili is exported, with the Philippines being a significant destination. Here, it is transformed into chili powder, chili sauce, chili oil, and chili cheese, primarily used in hot dogs, hamburgers, and raw culinary applications. This consistent demand streamlines my sales process, sparing me the complexities of dealing with brokers or middlemen.”
Despite the success, Dominic acknowledges the challenges he encounters, particularly in labor shortage. “My farm experiences labor constraints due to the skin irritations caused by the pesticides used to combat pests. Presently, I have only two workers, an insufficient workforce for this expansive farm. Additional challenges include adverse effects of heavy rainfall on crop growth, pest and disease management, mole infestations, and theft by local residents, despite installing security lighting in every corner of the greenhouse.”
Dominic extends an invitation to aspiring farmers, emphasizing the relatively modest capital requirement of Ksh 800,000, covering land preparation, planting, pesticides, chemicals, and labor. “I call upon the county and national governments to support Kenyan youth and communities by providing land and financial assistance. Empowering and educating individuals about the merits of chili farming is crucial. Many in our region remain unfamiliar with chili cultivation, accustomed to crops such as tomatoes, carrots, and avocados. I stand as a unique example here and am open to mentoring and sharing my experiences with those eager to embark on this profitable venture.”
Authored by: Jesse Abishek
Contact Email: abijessyshi@gmail.com
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