Most of us know where to get residential or commercial land but where is the best place to buy agricultural land in Kenya? Kenya’s agricultural sector is a thriving powerhouse, contributing significantly to the country’s economy and food security. If you’re considering investing in agricultural land in Kenya, you’re on the right track. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the most lucrative opportunities and regions in Kenya to purchase agricultural land. We’ll delve into the recent statistics and trends, government policies and programs, and specific crop recommendations to help you make an informed decision.
The State of Agriculture in Kenya
Statistics and Trends (as of 2023)
Kenya is a prominent player in the global agricultural arena, particularly in tea and coffee production. In 2022, the country recorded impressive statistics in crop production:
- Maize production reached 42.1 million bags, up from 36.7 million bags in 2021.
- Wheat production saw an increase to 3.5 million bags, up from 2.9 million bags in 2021.
- Despite these successes, rice production decreased in 2022, with 1.2 million bags compared to 1.4 million bags in 2021.
Government Initiatives
Kenyan agriculture benefits from robust government support through initiatives like the Agriculture Sector Development Strategy (ASDS) and the National Agricultural and Rural Inclusive Growth Project (NARIGP). The ASDS aims to transform the agricultural sector into a dynamic, competitive, and sustainable contributor to food security and economic growth. NARIGP, a five-year project, enhances the livelihoods of smallholder farmers by providing access to credit, inputs, and extension services.
Top Regions for Buying Agricultural Land in Kenya
When it comes to purchasing agricultural land, specific regions in Kenya offer the most potential:
1. Rift Valley Region:
The Rift Valley Region is renowned for its diverse agricultural potential. It’s one of the prime areas for agricultural investments in Kenya. The region boasts several counties, each offering unique advantages for investors. Uasin Gishu County, often referred to as the “breadbasket of Kenya,” is famous for maize and wheat production. Nakuru County, known as the “fruit basket” of Kenya, is ideal for cultivating fruits like apples, grapes, and strawberries. Bomet County is famous for tea and coffee cultivation, while Narok County is excellent for livestock farming, especially cattle and sheep.
2. Coast Region:
The Coast Region is known for its unique aspects of coastal agriculture. Kilifi County is a great choice for pineapples, mangoes, avocados and cashew nut farming as well as animal farming, while Taita Taveta County is known for its mango orchards. Additionally, Kwale County is suitable for growing pineapples and coconuts. The coastal climate and proximity to the Indian Ocean make this region particularly appealing for tropical and subtropical crops.
3. Central Kenya:
Central Kenya is another top region for agricultural land investment. Counties like Kiambu, Murang’a, and Nyeri offer promising opportunities. Kiambu County is known for coffee, bananas, and avocados, while Murang’a County specializes in coffee and tea. Nyeri County, with its cool climate, is perfect for cultivating horticultural crops like vegetables and potatoes.
4. Western Kenya:
Western Kenya plays a pivotal role in Kenyan agriculture. Kakamega County is an excellent choice for sugarcane farming, while Bungoma County is known for maize and sugarcane. Vihiga County offers favourable conditions for horticultural crops like tomatoes and cabbages. The region’s abundant rainfall and fertile soils make it a prime location for various agricultural ventures.
5. Eastern Kenya:
Eastern Kenya is another region with significant agricultural prospects. Meru County is renowned for coffee and miraa (khat) production. Tharaka Nithi County is ideal for avocados, while Embu County excels in tea cultivation. Machakos County is suitable for vegetables and fruit trees, thanks to its semi-arid climate and irrigation infrastructure.
Well, we are based in the coastal region, so we’ll give you a bit more information on the coast.
Specific Crop Recommendations at the Coastal Region
In the coastal regions of Malindi and Kilifi, specific crop recommendations can help maximise your investment:
High-Value Crops
- Mangoes
- Avocados
- Passion fruit
- Dragon fruit
- Macadamia nuts
These crops, well-suited to the region’s climate and soil conditions, enjoy strong domestic and international demand, making them highly profitable for farmers.
Export Crops
- Cut flowers
- Spices (ginger, turmeric, black pepper, etc.)
- Herbs (basil, rosemary, thyme, etc.)
Export crops can open up global markets and significantly increase your agricultural land’s value.
Food Crops
- Maize
- Cassava
- Sweet potatoes
- Cowpeas
- Beans
You can read more about what you can farm in this article here. In addition to these high-value and export crops, focusing on essential food crops ensures food security and local market access.
Investing in agricultural land is the gateway to a sure future in farming. Your journey begins with the right piece of land and the crops that suit the region’s conditions. We sell affordable land in Malindi. For inquiries or more information, visit our website’s properties page or call/WhatsApp +254 799 999 797. Your agricultural investment starts with the perfect land, and we’re here to guide you towards that opportunity!
