Kakuzi expands blueberry production with 12-hectare greenhouse project
Kakuzi is positioning blueberries as a core product alongside its existing macadamia and avocado operations.
KENYA – Kakuzi Plc has begun developing a 12-hectare blueberry greenhouse project, adding blueberries as its third commercial superfood crop alongside macadamia and avocado as part of its revenue diversification strategy.
Managing Director Chris Flowers said crop trials confirmed commercial viability, with the blueberry division recording a half-year profit of Ksh 13 million (approx. US$100,000), compared with a Ksh 17 million (approx. US$131,000) loss in the same period last year.
“Kakuzi has been actively working to diversify its revenue streams, and our blueberry operations are part of this foundation. Our blueberry production has increased in line with expectations. This venture is now profitable and has recorded a half-year profit of Ksh 13 million, recovering from the Ksh 17 million loss posted for the same period last year,” Flowers said.
Blueberry output from pilot orchards reached 42,000 kg as of June 2026, compared with 8,400 kg during the same period in 2025. This fivefold increase reflects successful crop trials, improved cultivation practices, and rising market demand for Kenyan blueberries.
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 and revenue projections, with demand coming from both domestic and international markets.
In addition, the blueberry division’s financial turnaround was driven by increased production volumes and successful crop trials that demonstrated commercial viability. The division moved from a significant loss to a notable profit within a single year.
On the other hand, Kakuzi is diversifying its portfolio beyond fresh produce by exploring value-added avocado products, including frozen pulp and avocado oil. These long-life products target export markets and reduce reliance on fresh fruit exports alone.
As part of its broader superfood commercialization strategy, Kakuzi is positioning blueberries as a core product alongside its existing macadamia and avocado operations.
Therefore, by combining these three high-value crops, Kakuzi is building a diversified portfolio that can withstand market fluctuations in any single commodity. In addition, demand for Kenyan blueberries continues to rise in both domestic and international markets, supporting Kakuzi’s expansion plans.
Moreover, the controlled environment of the greenhouses enables consistent year-round production and protection against weather-related risks, ensuring a reliable supply to meet growing customer demand.
Finally, Kakuzi’s superfoods portfolio represents a significant opportunity to contribute to Kenya’s agricultural transformation and economic development while delivering value to all stakeholders.
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