After 13 years toiling on a dragon fruit farm, Musa Muguna embarked on his own journey to grow this exotic fruit on a larger scale, delving into a market eager for its unique benefits.
It was like abandoning the only bird at hand to explore the wilderness for another.
“It was tough at first, and I wasn’t sure if it would turn into a thriving business,” Moses says, recalling his transformation from farmer to businessman.
He planned his exit in advance, and slowly gathered dragon fruit seedlings during his time at his former workplace. Each seedling cost him Sh500.
His initial skepticism turned to optimism as he plunged wholeheartedly into this endeavor.
On his one-acre farm in Meru County, he has 400 dragon fruits that have radically changed his fortunes. Gone are the days when he had to break his back to earn some money. Nowadays, with little input, it's making him money.
On his farm, Musa now finds himself easily receiving orders from wholesalers and retailers.
Dragon fruit farming is rapidly gaining interest in Kenya, fueled by a growing appetite for healthier food options and a growing vegetarian demographic.
Dragon fruit is among a small group of foods considered “superfoods” due to its high nutritional content.
It is rich in vitamins and minerals (beta carotene, vitamin E, lycopene, phosphorus and calcium) and essential fatty acids. Moreover, it is rich in antioxidants, fiber and potassium.
“It can protect cells, regulate digestion, lower blood sugar levels, improve heart, eye and skin health, and boost energy levels,” summarizes Oxfarm, an African agribusiness company that helps fruit farmers produce market-ready products and improve efficiency.
Dragon fruit growing on Alice Withira's farm in Gathirweni Kiambu District on May 13, 2024.
Image credit: Billy Ogada Nation Media Group
Alice Waitera is among the consumers who have gone to grow dragon fruit in large numbers.
She was so impressed by the fruit's incredible sweetness during her time working in China that she returned to Kenya determined to grow it locally.
“Discovering its high price locally, coupled with its countless nutritional benefits, strengthened my resolve to grow it,” says Alice.
Six years into the project, her quarter-acre farm in Gathirweni, Kiambu County, is now teeming with 120 dragon fruit trees, serving not only as a source for the harvest but also as a learning center for budding enthusiasts.
She regrets not starting sooner.
“I harvest three times a year, producing 10 boxes each cycle, all of which are sold locally while I make plans for expansion,” she says with a smile.
Alice Withira on her farm in Gathirweni Kiambu District on May 13, 2024.
Image credit: Billy Ogada Nation Media Group
Moses confirms that dragon farming promises a profitable return. “One post produces about 30 kilograms of dragon fruit. With 400 posts, that's about 12,000 kilograms.
Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya or strawberry pear, has vibrant colors and a distinctive flavor. Moss & Alice specializes in growing red and white varieties which have a ready market in Kenya.
Promote growth
Growing dragon fruit requires careful planning and resource allocation, according to agriculture experts. Soil composition, drainage and pH levels play pivotal roles in ensuring optimal growth and productivity.
Agriculture techniques
While dragon fruit can be propagated from seed or stem cuttings, each method carries its own nuances and challenges. Seed propagation offers simplicity but may produce offspring with unexpected traits. Stem cuttings, although more controlled, require strict care during the initial stages.
Sustainability and return
Dragon fruit plants thrive in warm climates with minimal water requirements, and can produce abundant crops for up to three decades, with periodic pruning revitalizing fruit production.
Navigating challenges
While the resilience of fruit reduces its susceptibility to pests and diseases, vigilance against environmental adversity remains paramount. Cold snaps pose a minor threat and can be easily mitigated with preventative measures.
Alice Waithera's dragon fruit plant nursery pictured on May 13, 2024, in Gathirweni, Kiambu County.
Image credit: Billy Ogada Nation Media Group
Seize opportunities
Despite the nascent status of dragon fruit in the local market, the growing demand has seen its value sky-high. Its rich nutritional profile and diverse applications make it a lucrative commodity for discerning consumers.
Beyond the harvest
The versatility of dragon fruit extends beyond its harvest, offering ways to add value and extend shelf life through processing into various products such as juices, jams and herbal teas.
A fruitful future
With demand high and supply struggling to keep up, farmers like Musa and Alice find themselves at the center of a thriving market, ready to reap the fruits of their labor while promoting Kenya's growing affinity for this exotic fruit.
Dragon fruit market
Demand for dragon fruit is increasing, but supply is still low. Ms. Withira is among the enthusiastic dragon fruit growers who plan to tap the market soon.
But Mr Muguna's story is different.
“People from all over the world consume fruit. Many people need fruit. I don’t even have enough to export. I receive orders from supermarkets in the region. I cannot meet the market demand outside the region,” he says.