Wambugu Apples: A Successful Journey in Agricultural Innovation and Value Addition
In the heart of Kenya, Kate Wambugu, inspired by her father’s legacy, has embarked on a groundbreaking venture into apple farming and value addition. The recent launch of the Wambugu Apples Grading and Packing Warehouse stands as a testament to their commitment to revolutionizing the agricultural sector.
The Legacy of Wambugu Apples:
Founded by Kate’s father, Wambugu, the apple variety that fruits all year round has not only been a source of inspiration but has officially earned recognition under the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate (KEPHIS). Today, more than 2,500 farmers in Kenya and 36 other countries have embraced the unique variety, showcasing the international reach and impact of Wambugu Apples.
The Vision Unveiled:
Reflecting on her upbringing and the challenges her father faced in finding markets for his apples, Kate Wambugu envisions expanding the family legacy through value addition. The newly launched fruit grading and packing warehouse, located at the Infinity Industrial Park- Off the Eastern Bypass, is a crucial step in this direction.
A Facility of Unprecedented Capability:
The Wambugu Apples Grading and Packing Warehouse is a pioneer in Africa, boasting an impressive packing line with a capacity of 10 tonnes per hour. The facility operates around the clock, addressing post-harvest management challenges efficiently and effectively. This breakthrough is not limited to apples but extends to various fruits, including avocados, mangoes, passion fruits, peaches, pears, apricots, and tomatoes.
Innovative Financing and Environmental Consciousness:
The realization of this groundbreaking facility was made possible through debt financing from Diamond Trust Bank, amounting to Half a Million Dollars ($500,000). Matthew Njenga, Chairman of the Kenya Apple Growers and Exporters Association, emphasized the warehouse’s role in promoting environmentally conscious farming practices and its potential impact on soil health, biodiversity, and water conservation.
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Beyond Grading: A Vision for Value Addition:
Kate Wambugu sees the warehouse as more than just a grading facility. It marks the beginning of Wambugu Apples’ journey towards becoming a hub for value addition. The vision extends to exploring opportunities for processing and packaging various fruit-based products, creating a comprehensive solution for farmers and consumers alike.
A Recipe for Growth: Collaboration and Multi-Stakeholder Engagement:
Highlighting the collaborative nature of the initiative, Kate emphasized the role of multi-stakeholder engagements involving government, learning institutions, development organizations, and financial institutions. This collaborative approach, she stated, has been the recipe for the growth and impact of Wambugu Apples.
Pivotal Moment in Agricultural Landscape:
Dr. Betty Kibaara, Director of the Rockefeller Foundation, emphasized the significance of the Wambugu Apples Grading and Packing Warehouse as a pivotal moment in the agricultural landscape. She sees it as a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the prosperity of farmers, creating socio-economic impact throughout the agricultural value chain.
In conclusion, the journey of Wambugu Apples, fueled by a legacy of innovation and a commitment to sustainability, is set to redefine the agricultural landscape in Kenya and beyond. The Grading and Packing Warehouse is not just a facility; it’s a symbol of a vision coming to fruition and a catalyst for positive change in the agricultural sector.
For inquiries and to secure your Wambugu apple seedlings, reach out to Farmers Trend Nurseries through the following channels:
Director, GreenArm Acres Produce
11moCongratulations Kate, this is awesome