In the scenic highlands of Nyandarua County, farmer Nicholus Githendu faced a struggle familiar to many in his region; depleted soil and poor crop yields. For years, despite his hard work, Nicholus was only able to harvest a single bag of maize from his two-acre farm, barely enough to support his family. His soil had lost its fertility, and no matter how much chemical fertilizer he applied, the results remained dismal.
Everything changed when an agronomist introduced Nicholus to Agriflora Organic Solutions, a local company in Nyandarua producing organic fertilizers. Agriflora, through its investment by Kenya Climate Ventures (KCV), focuses on sustainable and climate-smart agricultural solutions by producing organic fertilizers. This one recommendation marked the turning point in Nicholus’s farming journey.
A Farming Breakthrough
His farm, once struggling, is now thriving with diverse crops: maize, beans, onions, carrots, bananas, and avocados, all yielding better results than he ever thought possible. After switching to Agriflora’s organic fertilizer, Nicholus began to see a dramatic transformation on his farm.
“I used to harvest just one bag of maize from my two acres of land , but now I’m getting a minimum of 18 bags from the two acres of land,” he shares excitedly. “With chemical fertilizers, the shoots appear quickly, but the plants aren’t as healthy in the long run. With Agriflora’s organic fertilizer, it takes longer for the shoots to emerge, but the crops grow stronger and healthier over time.”
This improvement wasn’t just about higher yields, it was about restoring the health of his soil. Nicholus’s once-depleted land was now fertile again, thanks to Agriflora’s organic approach.
Wider Impact of Agriflora Organic Solutions
Nicholus’s story is just one example of the many lives being transformed by Agriflora. The company, supported by Kenya Climate Ventures, has produced 16,500 bags of organic fertilizer so far, and the impact of their work extends beyond individual farmers. Agriflora has created 20 jobs, with 11 of those roles filled by women, promoting both economic development and gender inclusivity.
Additionally, Agriflora has partnered with 16 households as suppliers of raw materials and has benefitted at least 600 institutions including schools, cooperatives, and farms that use its products. Agriflora also supports 15 MSMEs in the value chain and has recycled over 1,021 tons of organic waste, transforming waste into valuable fertilizer that enriches the soil while reducing environmental pollution.
What’s more, 30% of rural households across the country have directly benefited from Agriflora’s fertilizers, improving their farm productivity and long-term sustainability. By choosing organic solutions, these households are also contributing to the preservation of their local ecosystems.
Overcoming Challenges and Growing Sustainably
Like many farmers in Kenya, Nicholus has faced numerous challenges, from unpredictable weather patterns to rising input costs. However, with Agriflora’s organic fertilizers, he now feels more equipped to manage these challenges. His soil continues to improve with each planting season, ensuring that his farm can produce healthy crops year after year.
“I’m convinced that Agriflora’s organic fertilizer is far better than chemical fertilizers,” Nicholus says. “My soil is recovering, and every season the results get better.”
Building Resilience and Sustainability with KCV
Nicholus’s success highlights the broader mission of Kenya Climate Ventures (KCV), which invests in climate-smart businesses like Agriflora to create sustainable change. By supporting innovative enterprises in water, waste and circularity, agribusiness, renewable energy and commercial forestry, KCV is empowering communities, enhancing livelihoods, and building resilient ecosystems.
Through its investments, KCV is not just providing capital but is actively contributing to the growth of climate-smart businesses that tackle real-world problems, such as soil degradation and food security. Companies like Agriflora are at the heart of this mission, helping farmers like Nicholus transition to more sustainable practices while improving their livelihoods.
Join Us in Creating Sustainable Change
Nicholus Githendu’s story is just one of many demonstrating the profound impact that sustainable farming can have on farmers and communities alike. At Kenya Climate Ventures, we are dedicated to investing in early growth and growth stage businesses that make a difference, fostering innovation, and supporting farmers in adopting climate-smart solutions.
By choosing to support companies like Agriflora Organic Solutions, you too can be part of this transformative journey. Together, we can empower more farmers, revitalize depleted soils, and contribute to the fight against climate change.
Take action today:
Support climate-smart agribusinesses.
Choose organic and sustainable products.
Advocate for climate solutions in your community.
At Kenya Climate Ventures, we are committed to cultivating a sustainable future for farmers, the environment, and future generations. Will you join us?