The idea of an Kenyan vacation turned into an ambitious project in agriculture: cultivating the export of avocados. Janyra Organics, founded by Ton Verheijke, along with the founder’s Kenyan spouse Janet Chamia, grew from the common goal of producing premium agricultural products, while also helping the local economy.

Janet Chamia in the orchard of avocados

The adventure started in 2008 in the year 2008 when while traveling to Kenya, Ton met Janet. In the past she had an organization that dealt in tourism and hospitality however, she also owned a small piece of land that was not used. “In the beginning there were several crops that we could grow however, we lost nearly everything due to the drought” Ton says. The planting of avocado trees changed the tide and placed them on the path of a professional. They cultivated a variety of plants, as well.

“To enhance the conditions of our community by digging wells, we set up solar power as well as constructed drainage systems.” The obtaining of GlobalGAP certification is an important step, but was slowed by the COVID-19 epidemic. However, by 2023, Janyra Organics could finally begin exporting their first crop. Their inability to be recognized on the market however, put an obstacle in the way. “We were out of cash by the time 2024 ended,” Ton admits.

Janyra Organics: more than an enterprise

Janyra Organics stands not only in organic farming, but also as a symbol of social responsibility. Farm work is carried out by local people in good working conditions. “We provide them with a source for income, be it the form of a salary, board or accommodations.” The business sells its goods locally, as its exports of herbs and avocados aren’t yet delivering the expected results. “But we, along with other cultivators are constantly searching for ways to join within an export-chain. We would like to be part of an established export chain over the next few years, so our amazing products will be able to reach to the international markets,” says Verheijke.

Believing in perseverance

In spite of these challenges, Ton is proud of his accomplishments and that of Janet achieved. “We have achieved so much with the resources we have at hand: From infrastructure to jobs. It’s a thing to feel mândrious of.” But, Janyra Organics’ future remains in doubt. “We are not in a position to invest in new ventures. But, we trust in our product and the mission. Now, I am investing my time most of my time in the promotion of our products to the international market. I am able to increase awareness through attending trade fairs and other occasions. 2025 will be crucial for us.” Ton concludes. (ML)

More details:

Ton Verheijke

The Janyra Organics Exporters

+31 6 542 551 01

[email protected]

www.janyraorganicexporters.com