Why most Kenyan farmers are still broke and what they can do differently

Agriculture remains the backbone of Kenya’s economy, yet many farmers continue to struggle financially despite working tirelessly. You often hear stories of people waking up at dawn to tend to their farms, only to earn very little at the end of the season. The question many ask is simple: why are so many farmers still broke despite the potential in agribusiness?. The answer lies in a combination of outdated practices, poor market structures and lack of proper planning. But the good news is that these challenges can be solved.

Poor access to reliable market information

One of the biggest reasons farmers remain broke is lack of access to accurate and timely market information. Many farmers plant crops without understanding demand patterns, seasonal shortages, or price fluctuations. As a result, they produce crops that flood the market, driving prices down. It becomes a cycle of hard work but low income.

Farmers also depend heavily on brokers who take advantage of this information gap. In many cases, brokers determine the price, leaving the farmer with little profit. Without access to real-time data, farmers produce blindly and sell blindly.

The solution lies in digital platforms, cooperative structures, and government market information systems that provide real-time pricing and connect farmers directly to buyers. Farmers who align their production with market demand earn significantly more.

Dependence on traditional farming methods

Many farmers still rely on traditional farming methods that limit productivity. Techniques passed down generations may have worked in the past, but they are not enough to compete in today’s changing climate and market environment. For instance, farmers may plant using poor spacing, outdated seed varieties, or ineffective pest control methods.

Modern agriculture requires precision and knowledge. Proper land preparation, certified seeds, soil testing and sustainable pest management all contribute to higher yields. Farmers who adopt these modern methods often double or even triple their income.

Training programs, agricultural extension services, and digital learning platforms can help farmers upgrade their farming skills and practices.

Poor Post-Harvest handling

A significant percentage of farmer losses occur after harvest. Many farmers lack proper storage facilities, leading to rot, pest attacks and spoilage. When farmers lose produce after harvest, they lose money before reaching the market.

Even for farmers who manage to preserve their produce, poor packaging and handling can lead to low-quality products that attract low prices. With proper storage technologies such as hermetic bags, charcoal coolers, and solar dryers, farmers can preserve quality and sell at better prices.

Post-harvest handling is not just about reducing loss; it is a direct path to increasing profit.

Over-reliance on rain-fed agriculture

Climate change has made weather patterns unpredictable. Yet many farmers still depend entirely on rainfall for irrigation. When rain is delayed or stops too early, crops fail and so does income. This leaves farmers vulnerable and financially unstable.

The adoption of affordable irrigation solutions, such as drip irrigation, water harvesting and solar-powered pumps can help farmers produce consistently throughout the year. With irrigation, farmers can time their production to coincide with high-demand periods when produce fetches higher prices.

Lack of financial planning and record keeping

Many farmers do not keep detailed records of their expenses, income, or production cycles. Without proper record keeping, it becomes difficult to know whether the farm is profitable or running at a loss. Poor financial planning also means farmers may not take advantage of loans, grants or insurance products designed to support agribusiness.

Keeping clear financial and production records allows farmers to make informed decisions, identify areas of improvement, and apply for funding with confidence. A farmer who understands their numbers is better positioned to grow their business.

Failure to diversify income

Many farmers rely on a single crop or livestock venture, making them vulnerable to market changes or disease outbreaks. When something goes wrong, income drops significantly.

Diversifying crops, adding livestock, or introducing value addition helps balance income streams. Farmers can also start side income ventures such as breeding seedlings, selling fodder or processing products like dried fruits, honey or yogurt.

Diversification creates financial stability and opens up new profit channels.

Farmers are not broke because agriculture is unprofitable,most are broke because of outdated systems, lack of market linkages and inconsistent production methods. With better access to information, adoption of modern techniques, improved post-harvest handling, irrigation and financial planning, farmers can transform their farms into thriving businesses.

Agriculture is a goldmine, but only for those who know how to mine it the right way. Let Kenyan farmers shift from traditional survival farming to modern, market-driven agribusiness that guarantees real and sustainable income.

Author: Moureen Koech

Moureen Koech is a passionate Digital Journalist, an adept Agribusiness Writer with a keen eye for news and an impactful story-teller,whose stories provide key value to Agripreneurs and stakeholders in the Agricultural sector