Tomato farming is at the top of the list. It is highly demanding, especially in disease and pest management.
When done professionally under minimal costs, it is hard to make losses. Misinformation about tomato farming leads farmers to losses by adding unnecessary costs.
The myth that only in tomato farming can you make a profit has attracted many farmers to this enterprise, only to make losses.
We expect an oversupply in the second half of 2024, which local demand cannot absorb. This will push prices lower than the current price of Ksh 3000.00 per crate.
Macadamia and Avocados
These are two complex crops most farmers are rushing to invest in with a promise by the county government’s high returns. The fact that it purely depends on exports tied by complex product regulations and conditions makes it the worst crop to produce.
In 2023, Macadamia and Avocado farmers earned the lowest prices in a decade. Oversupply and low demand lead farmers to sell their produce at ksh 10 per to brokers.
Read: Avocado farmers turn to Street Hooking for better prices
Prices are expected to rise gradually as supply declines in the third quarter. The reduced supply is caused by high-flower abortion experienced during long rains.
Potato
There is a potato shortage looming in the Kenyan market. The recent heavy rains destroyed most farms, leading to a low harvest. The current price for a bag of potatoes is Ksh 5400 in most regions.
These prices are expected to continue rising till November or December.
Onions
After two years of high market prices, onion prices are finally falling at a steady pace—from ksh 180 per kilo to the current ksh 50 per kilo.
Read: What next as poor quality onions flood market
Prices fell when almost all farmers turned to onion farming to earn good profits.
Farm gate prices are below ksh 30 per kilo and falling. Consumers will continue enjoying low prices in 2024 until mid-2025.
Cabbages
As we approach the dry season, cabbage prices will continue rising from the current Ksh 60 per head to Ksh 100. Low production of kale and indigenous vegetables is expected to increase demand for cabbages, hence pushing prices. Cabbages are the only promising crops in the second half of 2024.
