Grow Cash Crops That Deliver Maximum Profits like Maize, Sugarcane, Avocado, Coffee, Macadamia, Garlic, Passion Fruit, and Strawberries
Farming is one of the most powerful wealth-building opportunities in Kenya today. With the right knowledge, crop selection, and market access, farmers can make millions from their land. This guide highlights high-value cash crops you can grow in Kenya for maximum returns.
1. Maize – Kenya’s Staple Crop with Great Potential
Why Maize?
Maize is consumed daily in almost every household in Kenya. It’s in constant demand and can generate high returns when done at scale and with improved practices.
Profit Breakdown (Per Acre):
- Yield: 30–40 bags (90kg)
- Price per bag: Ksh 5,000 (average)
- Gross income: Ksh 150,000–Ksh 200,000
- Cost of production: Ksh 40,000–Ksh 60,000
- Net profit: Ksh 110,000–Ksh 140,000
Tip: Use early-maturing hybrids, practice crop rotation, and consider post-harvest storage to sell when prices peak.
2. Sugarcane – Long-Term but Lucrative
Why Sugarcane?
Sugarcane is a long-term investment (12–16 months) but can generate consistent income over several ratoon cycles (regrowths without replanting).
Profit Breakdown (Per Acre):
- Yield: 30–40 tonnes
- Price per tonne: Ksh 4,500–Ksh 6,000
- Gross income: Ksh 135,000–Ksh 240,000
- Cost of production: Ksh 70,000–Ksh 100,000
- Net profit: Ksh 65,000–Ksh 140,000
Tip: Partner with a factory or cooperative to ensure a ready market and transport services.
3. Avocado (Hass) – The Green Gold
Why Avocado?
Kenya exports millions of shillings worth of Hass avocado annually. Exporters are constantly looking for quality fruits, and demand continues to rise in Europe, China, and the Middle East.
Profit Breakdown (Per Acre – after year 3):
- Trees per acre: 150 (5m x 5m spacing)
- Yield per tree: 300–500 fruits
- Price per fruit: Ksh 10–30 (export market)
- Gross income: Ksh 450,000–Ksh 2,250,000
- Cost of maintenance: Ksh 60,000–Ksh 100,000
- Net profit: Ksh 390,000–Ksh 2,150,000
Tip: Invest in grafted seedlings and join an exporter contract early.
4. Coffee – Kenya’s Black Gold
Why Coffee?
Coffee has international appeal and earns consistent foreign exchange for Kenya. New disease-resistant varieties like Batian and Ruiru 11 boost yields and profits.
Profit Breakdown (Per Acre):
- Trees per acre: 600–800 (2m x 2m spacing)
- Yield: 5–10kg cherry per tree
- Price per kg cherry: Ksh 80–Ksh 120
- Gross income: Ksh 240,000–Ksh 960,000
- Production cost: Ksh 60,000–Ksh 150,000
- Net profit: Ksh 180,000–Ksh 810,000
Tip: Register with a cooperative society and use best pruning and feeding practices.
5. Macadamia – Export Crop with Big Returns
Why Macadamia?
Kenya is a top macadamia exporter. The nuts are used in snacks, oils, and confectionery. With a lifespan of over 40 years, macadamia trees are a long-term investment.
Profit Breakdown (Per Acre – year 5 onward):
- Trees per acre: 70–100
- Yield per tree: 20–30 kg
- Price per kg: Ksh 150–Ksh 250 (export grade)
- Gross income: Ksh 210,000–Ksh 750,000
- Cost: Ksh 50,000–Ksh 100,000
- Net profit: Ksh 160,000–Ksh 700,000
Tip: Space trees properly and prune regularly. Exporters are willing to support serious growers.
6. Garlic – High-Value Niche Crop
Why Garlic?
Garlic sells at premium prices and has a fast maturity period (4–5 months). It’s used in nearly every kitchen and has medicinal value.
Profit Breakdown (Per Acre):
- Yield: 2–3 tonnes
- Price per kg: Ksh 150–Ksh 250
- Gross income: Ksh 300,000–Ksh 750,000
- Production cost: Ksh 120,000–Ksh 180,000
- Net profit: Ksh 180,000–Ksh 570,000
Tip: Use certified garlic cloves and irrigate regularly for uniform bulb development.
7. Passion Fruit – Sweet Profits Every Week
Why Passion Fruit?
Passion fruit is one of the best-paying fruits in Kenya today. It produces fruit weekly and has a lifespan of 2–3 years with proper care.
Profit Breakdown (Per Acre):
- Vines per acre: 650–750
- Yield: 10–20 kg per vine annually
- Price per kg: Ksh 80–Ksh 150 (local and export)
- Gross income: Ksh 520,000–Ksh 2,250,000
- Cost of production: Ksh 100,000–Ksh 200,000
- Net profit: Ksh 420,000–Ksh 2,050,000
Tip: Train the vines on trellises and irrigate during dry months. Exporters pay better than local markets.
8. Strawberries – Fast-Moving and Profitable
Why Strawberries?
Strawberries mature in 2.5–3 months and yield continuously. They are in high demand in supermarkets, hotels, and by jam processors.
Profit Breakdown (Per 1/8 Acre):
- Plants: 1,000–1,500
- Yield: 25–35 kg weekly
- Price per kg: Ksh 150–Ksh 250
- Monthly income: Ksh 15,000–Ksh 35,000
- Yearly income (1/8 acre): Ksh 180,000–Ksh 420,000
- Net profit: Ksh 150,000–Ksh 380,000
Tip: Start with a small plot and scale based on demand. Drip irrigation is highly recommended.
How to Reach the Million-Mark Faster
Here’s how to turn these profits into millions:
✅ Combine Crops
Mix fast-yielding crops like garlic and strawberries with long-term earners like avocado or coffee.
✅ Use Irrigation
Drip irrigation increases yields and allows year-round farming—especially for fruits and high-value vegetables.
✅ Get Market Access
Join cooperatives, supply supermarkets, or partner with exporters to guarantee sales and better prices.
✅ Reinvest Profits
Scale gradually from 1 acre to 5, 10, or more using profits from your first harvests.
✅ Add Value
Dry fruits, grind garlic into powder, or pack maize flour to increase returns.
Conclusion: Farming is the Future
Farming in Kenya is a smart business. With the right crops, good planning, and market access, you can make millions within 2–5 years. Whether you’re starting with 1/8 acre or 10 acres, your land can transform your life.
Start now. Choose a profitable crop. Grow smart. Reap millions.
