Del Monte to turn pineapple waste into biofertilizer
Fruit exporter Del Monte Kenya has announced the opening of a biofertilizer factory that will turn the company’s vast pineapple residues into biofertilizers, opening a new income stream for the Thika based company.
This move holds the potential to transforming the agricultural industry in Kenya, championing sustainable practices, and bolstering the local community through innovation, job creation, and investment.
In a statement, Del Monte said the biofertilizer plant will not only allow efficient utilization of resources, but also set a new benchmark for environmental responsibility and sustainable agriculture across the region.
The plant, which is set to start production in June, will use residues from the company’s pineapple cannery to create four different types of biofertilizers for its use and eventual sale to other growers in East Africa.
“We are proud to contribute to the advancement of sustainable practices through initiatives like the biofertilizer plant,” explained Wayne Cook, Del Monte Kenya Acting Deputy Managing Director.
Read also: Kenya signs deal to set up green fertiliser factory by 2025
Del Monte Kenya export markets
Del Monte Kenya, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc., already employs 6,500 Kenya workers directly.
Key market destinations for the company’s fresh fruit and prepared food are countries in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
With the opening of this plant, the company can further support the local economy and work towards growing its footprint and impact in the region.
According to the International Trade Administration, the government of Kenya is seeking players from the private sector to set up fertilizer plants in a bid to plug increasing demand for the key farm input.
Studies show that organic fertilizers have the potential to step up farmers’ crop yield by 30 percent, and with the help of the U.S. Agency for International Development, for instance, the government is working with 10,000 farmers and 1,000 agrovets across the country to support and enhance crop production.
