Deep in the heart of Kwa Kathoka village, Makueni County, a quiet agricultural revolution is unfolding. Iviani Farm, a youth-led enterprise founded by Faith Mumo and Benjamin Munyao, is putting Kenya’s Makueni region on the global map with its premium dried fruit crisps—crunchy mango, banana, and pixie snacks now delighting consumers in Europe, Canada, the United States, and across Kenya.
From farm to global shelves
What began as a cottage industry has blossomed into a thriving agribusiness. In a single season, Iviani Farm processes up to 150 metric tons of raw mango into export-quality crisps, tackling two critical challenges in Kenya’s agricultural sector: post-harvest losses and price volatility. By purchasing mangoes directly from local farmers, the farm provides a reliable market, stabilizes prices, and ensures farmers reap the rewards of their labor.
A model of youth innovation
Faith and Benjamin, both young entrepreneurs, embody the potential of Kenya’s next generation. Their vision extends beyond profit; it’s about community empowerment. “We saw an opportunity to add value to what farmers already grow,” says Faith, who also serves as CEO of BEFA FEEDS, a livestock feed manufacturing company based in Kwa Kathoka. Together, these ventures form a robust agricultural value chain—Iviani Farm processes fruits, while BEFA FEEDS produces affordable, high-quality animal feeds, collectively creating hundreds of jobs and uplifting the local economy.
Government backing for youth-led growth
The farm’s impact recently drew the attention of Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr., who visited the facility alongside County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture Joyce Mutua. Impressed by the initiative’s ripple effect, Governor Mutula pledged increased support for youth-led start-ups through the Makueni County Empowerment Fund. “This is the kind of innovation we need—enterprises that solve local problems while creating jobs and boosting exports,” he remarked.
More than a snack: A catalyst for change
Iviani Farm’s success story is multifaceted:
- Reducing waste: By converting surplus mangoes into crisps, the farm slashes post-harvest losses, a persistent issue in Kenya’s fruit sector.
- Global reach: Their products meet stringent international standards, showcasing Makueni’s potential as a hub for agri-exports.
- Job creation: From fruit sorters to packaging staff, the farm and BEFA FEEDS provide direct employment, while indirect opportunities flourish in transport, retail, and farming.
A blueprint for rural development
Faith and Benjamin’s dual ventures highlight how rural economies can thrive when value addition meets visionary leadership. As Iviani Farm scales, it inspires other young entrepreneurs to leverage local resources and think globally.
“Our dream is to see Makueni recognized not just for mangoes, but for innovation,” says Benjamin. “Every crisp we export carries the story of our community’s hard work and resilience.”
With youth-led enterprises like Iviani Farm leading the charge, Makueni County is proving that even the smallest villages can produce world-class solutions—one mango crisp at a time.
For more info visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-maingi-mprsk-4a69999b?miniProfileUrn=urn%3Ali%3Afsd_profile%3AACoAABVTNH4BIzOtrppADSB4RySgUl4RQAtswGM
