In the fertile plains of Thika, central Kenya, pineapple farming is being reshaped by technology and sustainability as agribusinesses pivot toward climate-resilient practices. One of the country’s leading fruit producers is pioneering smart agriculture methods to ensure consistent production despite extreme weather events like prolonged droughts and flash floods.
Spanning over 4,000 hectares, the farm has turned to precision agriculture tools—including drone surveillance, satellite imaging, and advanced drip irrigation systems—to enhance crop yields while conserving resources. The shift to drip irrigation alone has slashed water usage by nearly 40%, making pineapple farming more sustainable and cost-efficient.
Each hectare is densely planted with tens of thousands of pineapple plants, nurtured over an 18-month cycle. Modern soil sensors and geospatial technologies now guide watering and nutrient delivery, reducing waste and improving productivity.
Waste from harvested pineapples is no longer discarded. Instead, it’s processed into organic fertilizer at a newly launched biofertilizer plant. This initiative, developed through a private-public partnership, holds promise for broader adoption by smallholder farmers across East Africa seeking affordable and eco-friendly alternatives to chemical fertilizers.
Environmental restoration is also underway. Thousands of native trees have been planted along critical water catchment zones to restore ecosystems, enhance biodiversity, and help regulate local climates. These reforestation efforts, combined with practices like composting and cover cropping, further enrich soil health and reduce dependency on synthetic inputs.
Beyond agriculture, the company is deeply integrated into local development. It employs over 6,000 people directly and supports many more through its value chain. Investments in schools, housing, roads, and healthcare services underline its broader role as a community anchor.
By aligning technological innovation with environmental responsibility, the pineapple industry in Thika is emerging as a model for climate-smart agribusiness in Africa. Its forward-looking strategy offers a glimpse into how agriculture can evolve to meet both global food demands and sustainability goals.