Persimmon Farming in Kenya: Fruit With Higher Vitamin C Than Orange

Persimmon farming in Kenya is an emerging industry that has shown significant growth and potential in recent years. The unique climate and soil conditions in certain parts of Kenya make it an ideal location for persimmon cultivation, and many farmers are now turning to this fruit as a profitable crop.  

Persimmon Fruits.

Just to provide a quick sneak peek of vitamin content comparison of oranges versus persimmon:

Vitamin C

Both orange and persimmon are high in Vitamin C. Persimmon has 47% more Vitamin C than orange - orange has 45mg of Vitamin C per 100 grams and persimmon has 66mg of Vitamin C.

Vitamin A

Orange has more Vitamin A than persimmon - orange has 11ug of Vitamin A per 100 grams and persimmon does not contain significant amounts.

Vitamin E

Orange and persimmon contain similar amounts of Vitamin E - orange has 0.18mg of Vitamin E per 100 grams and persimmon does not contain significant amounts.

 The above information tells you why persimmon farming is the next great thing for the early adopters as the fruit has high demand both domestically and internationally. Persimmons are a popular fruit in many countries around the world, and the increasing awareness of their health benefits has driven up demand. This presents a lucrative opportunity for Kenyan farmers to capitalize on this trend and tap into the global market for persimmons.

Additionally, persimmons are a relatively low maintenance crop that requires minimal inputs compared to other fruits. They are drought-tolerant and can thrive in diverse climatic conditions, making them suitable for cultivation in various regions of Kenya. This provides farmers with a flexible and versatile option for diversifying their agricultural activities and maximizing their profits.

However, there are also challenges associated with persimmon farming in Kenya that need to be addressed. One of the main obstacles is the lack of access to modern farming techniques and technologies, which can hinder productivity and quality. Many small-scale farmers in Kenya rely on traditional farming methods and have limited knowledge of best practices for persimmon cultivation. 

Furthermore, the market for persimmons in Kenya is still developing, and farmers may face difficulties in finding buyers and establishing distribution channels. Improving market linkages and creating a sustainable value chain for persimmons is essential for the long-term success of this industry in Kenya.

Despite these challenges, there is great potential for persimmon farming to thrive in Kenya. The government and agricultural organizations can play a crucial role in providing support and resources to farmers, such as training programs, subsidies, and access to credit. By investing in research and development, improving infrastructure, and promoting the benefits of persimmon farming, Kenya can position itself as a key player in the global persimmon market.

 In conclusion, persimmon farming in Kenya offers numerous benefits and opportunities for farmers to diversify their income and contribute to economic growth. While there are challenges that need to be addressed, the future of persimmon farming in Kenya looks promising with the right support and investments in place. By harnessing the potential of this fruit and leveraging its unique qualities, Kenya can establish itself as a leading producer and exporter of persimmons in the region.