Kenyan tycoon John Kimani-linked Kakuzi teams up with government to boost agribusiness

Kakuzi Plc, the agricultural cultivation and processing company partly owned by Kenyan businessman John Kimani, has announced plans to foster a technical collaboration partnership with the County Government of Siaya to promote avocado and macadamia farming, part of efforts to open new income streams for smallholder farmers in western Kenya.

Under the agreement, the listed agribusiness and superfoods producer will provide extension services and technical guidance, while the county will support the supply of quality Hass avocado and macadamia seedlings. Farmers will also tour Kakuzi’s orchards in Murang’a to learn best practices in crop husbandry.

Speaking during his visit to Kakuzi Plc’s orchards in Makuyu, Murang’a County, County Government of Siaya Governor James Orengo said the collaboration fits into Siaya’s broader economic transformation agenda. “This visit has been a real eye-opener on the value of avocado and macadamia farming as poverty eradication options,” Orengo said, adding that training of extension officers will be central to the rollout.

Kakuzi to offer technical support

Kakuzi Managing Director Chris Flowers said the firm will help farmers gain skills and market access in export-focused avocado and macadamia chains. Kakuzi will also showcase its products at the upcoming Siaya International Trade and Investment Conference. Kenya is already a leading avocado producer, with demand rising globally. Macadamia is also gaining ground as processors move to fill supply gaps. 

For Kakuzi, the Siaya partnership aligns with its broader push to expand avocado exports and scale up macadamia processing. The company has branded itself as a champion of sustainable agribusiness, though past human-rights controversies on its estates—settled after reforms—mean the initiative will face close scrutiny from farmers, civil groups and international buyers.

A boost to rural incomes

Kakuzi has grown beyond its usual crops and now sells roasted macadamia nuts and macadamia oil. It has also put money into making its business more climate-resistant. The Nginye dam's recent upgrade added 1 million cubic meters of storage, making sure there will be enough water for future production.

The Nairobi-listed firm, 34.54 percent owned by Kenyan tycoon John Kimani, has seen its macadamia business emerge as a key driver. Profit from the unit surged to Ksh319 million ($2.47 million) from Ksh32 million ($247,302) a year earlier, fueled by strong global demand and firmer prices.

The Siaya partnership is set to give farmers certified seedlings, clear contracts, and better access to markets, raising rural incomes and lowering their dependence on low-margin staples. Kimani is in charge of strategy, and the deal shows how Kenya's top agribusiness leaders are working with county governments to promote crop diversity and rural business.