In the rugged highlands of Marakwet West, Elgeyo Marakwet County, one farmer is challenging the norm and defying expectations by reaping a fortune from temperate fruits.
While mangoes, watermelons, bananas, and papayas thrive in the warmer valley regions, the cold highlands are beginning to showcase their hidden treasures: fruits like apples, plums, and pears.
One enterprising farmer, David Kiprotich from Kibigos village, has unlocked the secrets of growing these temperature fruits, making a name for himself and capturing the attention of his community.
48-year-old Kiprotich, once a maize and beans farmer, decided to experiment with temperate fruits after learning about their potential profitability.
“I knew these fruits needed cooler temperatures, and my land was in one of the coldest areas in Marakwet,” he said. At first, people thought I was wasting my time. Apples and plums are not what you’d call ‘Marakwet fruits’. But I wanted to try something different,” says Kiprotich.
With a determined spirit, he planted his first apple trees in 2018. It took patience; unlike the mangoes and bananas of the valley, temperate fruit trees take time to mature. But after three years, his hard work paid off. “The first harvest was small but the fruits were beautiful and fresh. People were curious, and soon, I was getting orders from Kapsowar, Kapcherop, and even as far as Eldoret,” David explained.
Not only did David find success in apple farming, but he also began experimenting with plums and pears, introducing new flavors and options for local consumers.
“It was amazing to see the look on people’s faces when they tasted these fruits for the first time,” he said.
“There is a uniqueness and sweetness in these fruits that we just don’t have in our usual crops. Plus, since few farmers grow them, they fetch a good price in the market,”.
His farm has grown into a model farm, attracting neighboring farmers from Kapyego, Kaptalamwa, and Kimnai. Many now see David’s success as a path to diversify their farming.
One local farmer, Miriam Cherop, shared, “David showed us that farming is not just about the usual crops. We can try new things, and who knows? We might make more money this way,”.
David has also faced challenges, particularly with pests and unpredictable weather. But he remains resilient, investing in knowledge and collaborating with agricultural extension officers. “Every crop has its challenges, but I believe that with the right care and dedication, these fruits can thrive here,” he said.
The Elgeyo Marakwet County Department of Agriculture has taken notice of the rising interest in temperate fruit farming. In a statement, the Marakwet West Sub County Agriculture Officer, Raymond Cheboi, said, “Farmers like David are showing us the potential of diversifying into crops suited for the highlands. We are committed to providing support and resources to encourage others to explore this path,”.
David hopes to expand his farm and eventually start a nursery, providing affordable seedlings to other local farmers interested in venturing into temperate fruit farming. His story has sparked a wave of inspiration across Marakwet’s highlands, where farmers are increasingly willing to take a chance on fruits once considered unsuited to the region.
“I’m proud of what I’ve built, but it’s only the beginning. Our highlands have so much potential, and I want to see them bloom with fruits of all kinds, ” David remarked.
By Rennish Okong’o
