Farmers in different regions of Kenya, particularly coastal and western counties are raking in millions from jackfruit farming. The unique plant can produce up to 300 fruits. One fruit weighs between five and forty kilograms, depending on the size.
Peter Kubebea, a jackfruit farmers from Buyosi village, Busia County, stated that the plant takes up to three years to mature. He stated that jackfruit farming is more profitable than maize farming. "One tree can produce over three hundred fruits. So within one year, a farmer can make Ksh 450,000. Half a million from 10 trees. It is better than growing maize which may earn you five or 10 bags in one year.”
When asked whether Jackfruit farming is more profitable than depending on traditional cash crops, Okisegere Ojepat, an agricultural expert, explained a number of factors that should be considered before making a conclusion.
"It is not just about the amount of money you can make. It depends on the acreage and the variety. … Profits are determined by the price, the market, consistency and the variety you are planting. Because if your supplying the market that everyone is supplying the prices will come down, but if you have a targeted market, that is totally a different thing.”
[ Ksh100 = €0.68 ]
Source: kenyans.co.ke