Kakuzi Plc has officially begun developing a 12-hectare greenhouse project to expand blueberry production in Kenya. This initiative adds blueberries to the company’s commercial superfood portfolio, which already includes macadamia and avocado. Management views the venture as a critical component of a wider strategy to diversify revenue streams beyond its traditional produce lines.
Managing Director Chris Flowers stated that crop trials confirmed the commercial viability of the crop. The division successfully moved from a significant loss to a profit in a single year. The financial turnaround is notable given the initial challenges of establishing a new fruit crop in a region known for coffee and tea.
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Kakuzi recorded a half-year profit of Ksh 13 million, approximately US$100,000, during the most recent reporting period. These numbers stand in sharp contrast to the Ksh 17 million loss, or roughly US$131,000, posted for the same time last year. Output figures show a dramatic increase, with blueberries harvested totaling 42,000 kg by June 2026. This volume is five times higher than the 8,400 kg recorded during the same period in 2025. The surge reflects successful crop trials, improved cultivation practices, and rising market demand for Kenyan blueberries.
The shift from a financial loss to a profit highlights the volatility inherent in agricultural investments, particularly when introducing new species to established markets. While the greenhouses provide the necessary climate control, the operational costs of maintaining such a facility are substantial. Operators must constantly monitor environmental parameters to ensure optimal growth, balancing energy costs against the premium value of the fruit. This transition requires a significant shift in technical expertise, moving the workforce from general farming to precision agriculture techniques. The success of these crops also depends on the availability of specialized labor for tasks like hand-pollination, which is common for blueberry plants.
Greenhouse Infrastructure and Market Strategy
The purpose-built greenhouses under development across the 12-hectare orchard are designed to maintain and increase output. Flowers said the company expects production to meet annual field expectations, with demand coming from both domestic and international markets. The controlled environment protects crops from weather risks, ensuring a reliable supply regardless of external weather conditions. The infrastructure allows for precise management of soil and air quality.
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In addition to blueberries, Kakuzi is diversifying its portfolio by exploring value-added avocado products. The company is developing frozen pulp and avocado oil, which target export markets. These long-life products reduce reliance on fresh fruit exports alone. By combining these three high-value crops, the firm is building a diversified portfolio that can withstand market fluctuations in any single commodity.
Kakuzi is positioning blueberries as a core product within its broader superfoods commercialization strategy. The controlled environment of the greenhouses enables consistent year-round production. This approach supports the company’s expansion plans by mitigating the risks associated with seasonal weather patterns and ensuring a steady flow of income.
