Banana farming: Meru gives Kisii a run for its money

A stroll around the Imenti area in Meru reveals swathes of lush green farms where banana plantations are flourishing alongside the region’s traditional crop, miraa (khat). As farmers increasingly invest in banana farming, the region is slowly transforming, setting itself on par with the Gusii region, which has long been recognized as the backbone of banana production in Kenya.

In Imenti, where large chunks of farmland are now dedicated to bananas, it is the women who are at the forefront of this agricultural shift. They are the driving force behind the production and marketing of bananas, taking the lead in cultivating the crops and ensuring they reach the markets. The venture has not only empowered these women but has also become a significant economic pillar for the region, supporting livelihoods and contributing to the local economy.

Women leading the way

In a region traditionally dominated by miraa farming, the rise of banana farming marks a significant shift. The women of Imenti have embraced this new venture with enthusiasm, recognizing its potential to improve their economic status and support their families. In addition to working on the farms, these women have taken a leading role in marketing the produce, ensuring that the bananas reach local and distant markets. 

One of the key reasons for the success of banana farming in Imenti is its compatibility with other crops, particularly coffee. In coffee zones such as the three Imenti sub-counties, Kiegoi in Igembe South, and Michiimikuru in Tigania, women have found space to intercrop bananas with coffee. This practice has not only diversified their income sources but also contributed to better land utilization and crop management.

The estimated annual production of bananas in Meru stands at around 400,000 tons, with a market value of approximately Sh6 billion, according to county government figures. This significant output underscores the importance of banana farming to the local economy, providing a steady income stream for farmers and other stakeholders in the value chain.

The economic impact of banana farming in Meru cannot be overstated. It has created numerous opportunities for rural people, especially women and youth, who are involved in various stages of the value chain. From planting and harvesting to packing and transportation, banana farming has injected millions into the local economy.

Gideon Kimathi, Governor Kawira Mwangaza’s economic advisor, highlighted the ripple effects of the banana value chain on the local economy.

“Banana farming has brought up a new economic pillar, with its value chain employing many rural people, especially women and youth. It has really injected millions into the local economy. The farmer gets money from banana sales, and youth with bodaboda motorcycles get money in terms of transportation to the market,” said Kimathi.

In addition to direct employment, banana farming has led to the growth of commercial centers in the region. Markets such as Ntharene, Kamachege, Miruriiri, and Kanyakine have thrived due to the booming banana trade, creating a vibrant commercial environment that supports various businesses. These centers have become hubs of economic activity, attracting traders, transporters, and other service providers.

Challenges and opportunities

Despite the success of banana farming in Meru, the women involved in this venture face significant challenges. One of the main issues is the low prices they receive for their produce. With half a kilo of bananas retailing at just Sh20, the women often struggle to make a profit. Additionally, they have to contend with brokers who have been accused of exploiting farmers by offering low prices and controlling the market.

Nominated Meru Assembly MCA Gacheri Muthuri, herself a banana farmer, expressed her frustration with the current situation. “We don’t celebrate as banana farmers because we don’t get good returns from it, because of many brokers,” said Muthuri, who hails from Imenti South, one of the most productive regions. She called on the government to support banana farmers by providing value addition mechanisms and creating more market opportunities.

Cecilia Muriuki, another farmer, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for better infrastructure and support services. “A lot of the bananas we produce are bought by big food companies and traders from Nairobi and other counties, and because we don’t even have proper storage facilities, we are forced to sell at throwaway prices,” said Muriuki. She suggested that the establishment of processing factories and nurseries could help increase production and improve the profitability of banana farming.

The government has a crucial role to play in addressing the challenges faced by banana farmers in Meru. One of the key areas where government intervention is needed is in the establishment of value addition facilities. By processing bananas into products such as flour, chips, and juices, farmers could significantly increase their income and reduce their reliance on brokers. 

Additionally, the government can help by improving access to markets. This could be achieved through the construction of better roads and transportation networks, which would enable farmers to reach more lucrative markets in urban centers. The development of storage facilities and cold chains would also help reduce post-harvest losses and ensure that farmers get better prices for their produce.

Training and capacity building are other areas where government support is essential. By providing farmers with the knowledge and skills they need to improve their farming practices, the government can help increase banana production and quality. Extension services and agricultural education programs could play a key role in this regard, ensuring that farmers are equipped with the tools they need to succeed.

The future of banana farming in Meru looks promising, with the potential to become a major economic driver for the region. However, for this potential to be fully realized, it's important to address farmers' challenges. With the right support from the government and other stakeholders, banana farming could transform the lives of thousands of women and youth in Meru, providing them with a sustainable source of income and improving their overall well-being.

Banana farming in Meru is a growing economic powerhouse that has already made a significant impact on the local economy. By empowering women and providing opportunities for youth, it has the potential to drive economic growth and development in the region. With continued investment and support, banana farming could become a key pillar of Meru’s economy, ensuring a brighter future for the people of the region.