KENYA – Keitt Exporters Limited, led by co-founder and director Dr. Isaac Mwangi, has emerged as a key player, carving a niche in Europe and the Middle East.
Operational since 2001, the company’s growth trajectory under Dr. Mwangi’s guidance is nothing short of remarkable.
Dr. Mwangi’s journey began in 1990 as a fruit supplier in Malindi town, showcasing his passion for the agricultural sector.
Relocating to Makueni, he focused on supplying mangoes from local farms to Nairobi’s supermarkets and exporters, overcoming initial capital challenges with resilience and faith.
Reflecting on the early days, Dr. Mwangi said, “With the blessings of God, we got some money from somewhere, then we started growing slowly,” and the company witnessed significant expansion by 2012.
The visionary leader emphasized the pivotal role of a clear mission and vision in running a successful export company.
He acknowledged the support of organizations like the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) and Horticultural Crops Directorate (HCD) in providing certifications, licenses, and essential business knowledge.
Stressing the importance of adhering to accurate chemical levels for exports, Dr. Mwangi highlighted the crucial role of his technical department in guiding farmers. He also called upon the government to increase the number of extension officers and subsidize farming inputs.
In line with Keitt Exporters’ success, Kenya’s horticultural sector experienced substantial growth in 2023, as reported by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) in Nairobi.
Data revealed that from January to October 2023, Kenya exported a total of 580,648 tons of horticultural produce, surpassing the previous year’s export volume.
Vegetable exports reached 245,194 tons, fruit exports amounted to 224,643 tons, and cut flower exports totaled 110,811 tons during this period.
Compared to 2022, these figures represented a significant uptick, underscoring the sector’s resilience and adaptability.
While flower exports faced challenges due to global inflation and uncertainty in demand, with monthly exports averaging 12,000 tons, experts like Clement Tulezi, CEO of the Kenya Flower Council, remain optimistic about a potential 10 percent increase in horticultural exports for the entire year.
Horticulture stands as a linchpin in Kenya’s economy, alongside key sectors like tourism and tea, exemplifying its critical role as a foreign exchange earner for the country.
As Keitt Exporters continues to flourish under Dr. Mwangi’s leadership, it symbolizes the growth and potential within Kenya’s vibrant horticultural landscape.
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