Subukia brothers transform idle family land into profitable avocado venture

Two brothers from Subukia are proving that agriculture can be a viable source of income for young people after transforming family land into a growing avocado farming venture that now supplies export markets.

‎‎Brian Chege and his brother Charles Kingori began their avocado farming journey in 2013 after identifying an opportunity on their family's land. What started with just 50 avocado seedlings has since expanded to 340 trees, making avocado farming one of their key income-generating activities.

‎‎According to Chege, the availability of land motivated them to venture into avocado farming. At the time, their father suggested that they establish an avocado orchard as a joint venture. 

‎‎"While he acquired the seedlings, we contributed labour by preparing the land and digging planting holes and taking care of the fruit trees," he notes 

‎‎The arrangement has remained successful over the years. The family agreed on a revenue-sharing formula where their father receives 60 per cent of the earnings while the brothers share the remaining 40 per cent. 

‎‎King'ori notes that the agreement has helped avoid conflicts and strengthened cooperation within the family.

‎‎"We started with 50 seedlings and now we have 340. We have continued expanding gradually over time," he says.

‎‎Besides avocados, the family also grows coffee, maize and beans. While Chege is involved in farming part-time, Kingori also combines farming with other jobs. Despite having different responsibilities, the brothers continue managing the farm together.

‎‎Chege says that their first commercial harvest came in 2024, marking a significant milestone after more than a decade of nurturing the orchard. The produce is mainly sold through exporting companies that purchase avocados for international markets.

‎‎"Working together has taught us valuable lessons about teamwork and mutual support. Recognizing each other's strengths and weaknesses has enabled us to overcome challenges and maintain a productive partnership," he highlights 

‎‎However, the journey has not been without obstacles. They cited labour shortages, the high cost of farm inputs, and the challenges associated with managing pests and diseases as some of the difficulties they face. Accessing skilled labour for activities such as pruning, spraying and orchard maintenance remains a recurring challenge.

‎‎King'ori notes that despite these hurdles, avocado farming has enabled them to improve their livelihoods. 

‎‎Chege said the venture has helped him finance personal projects and gain knowledge in regenerative agriculture. Through partnerships with development organizations, he has also established a startup that produces organic fertilizer.

‎‎Looking ahead, the brothers plan to continue expanding their avocado enterprises to make farming their primary source of income. 

‎‎They believe agriculture offers significant opportunities for young people, especially at a time when unemployment remains a major concern.

‎‎‎‎Their story highlights how family collaboration, long-term commitment and proper utilization of available resources can help young people build sustainable agribusinesses while creating employment opportunities in rural areas.