Paul Kariuki, a young farmer in Molo, embarked on his farming journey after completing his secondary education.

Kariuki was unable to pursue higher studies due to financial constraints.

In a bid to raise some money, he worked as a casual labourer on a construction site for six months, before returning home to start farming in 2014.

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At home, Kariuki sought assistance from his parents, who provided him with a quarter-acre of land and potato seeds.

Paul Kariuki is a successful farmer in Molo.

Photo credit: MERCY KIHUGU/MTAA WANGU

After harvesting his first batch, he earned Sh 100,000 from the produce.

“It was this success that allowed me to lease more land, marking the beginning of my farming career,” Kariuki recalls.

The 32-year-old now manages a total of six acres where he cultivates maize, cabbages, beans, and peas in rotation.

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He primarily relies on rain fed farming, though he acknowledges its vulnerability to yield losses, due to climate change impacts.

“To address this challenge, I am actively working towards implementing irrigation on my farm. By doing so, I aim to establish a consistent production cycle, particularly during drought periods,” notes Kariuki.

This strategic move would ensure optimal crop growth and subsequent expansion of market opportunities for his produce.

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Kariuki observes that many farmers are subject to the mercy of middlemen who purchase their crops below market value and later sell them at inflated prices.

A section of Paul Kariuki's farm in Molo sub county.

Photo credit: MERCY KIHUGU/MTAA WANGU

“I once sold my cabbages for Sh 10 a piece and later learnt that the broker was selling them at twice the price. The infiltration of brokers is a menace but it is either you sell to them or your produce rots in the farm,” he laments.

Regarding his efforts to motivate young individuals towards agriculture, he has taken steps to empower the five young people he employs on his farm where he encourages them to lease plots of land to cultivate independently.

This approach not only supports their learning but also contributes to their personal development as agricultural practitioners.

“Through farming, I have managed to purchase land, construct a house for my family, and even assist my wife in establishing a business in Turi Centre,” a proud Kariuki states.

mercykihugu@gmail.com

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