A Legacy of Growth: Njoro Canning’s 45-Year Journey
For over four decades, Njoro Canning Factory (K) Ltd has been a cornerstone of Kenya’s agricultural sector, tackling one of farming’s biggest challenges: post-harvest losses. But what truly sets them apart is their 23-year partnership with Unilever Kenya, a collaboration that has not only strengthened local supply chains but also transformed the lives of smallholder farmers across the region.
Unilever’s Localization Strategy: More Than Just Business
At the heart of this partnership is Unilever Kenya’s commitment to localization—a strategy that aligns with Kenya’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Luck Ochieng, CEO of Unilever Kenya, puts it simply:
“Localization isn’t just about sourcing ingredients—it’s about creating real impact. It’s taking global sustainability goals and making them work for Kenyan farmers, businesses, and communities.”
And the numbers speak for themselves:
- 2023 Goal: 45% local sourcing → Achieved 49% (KSh 3.9 billion)
- 2024 Target: 55% → On track
- 2025 Vision: 70% local sourcing (KSh 6+ billion)
How This Partnership Lifts Kenyan Farmers
Njoro Canning works closely with 1,500 smallholder farmers and 30 large-scale growers, providing more than just a market—they offer stability, training, and growth.
Key Farmer Benefits:
- Assured Market & Fixed Prices – No more price volatility; farmers can plan ahead.
- Global GAP Certification Support – Helping farmers meet international standards.
- Agronomic Training – Better yields, better quality, better incomes.
Vipul Patel, Director of Njoro Canning, explains:
“Contract farming gives farmers security. They know their produce has a buyer, so they can invest in their land with confidence.”
Why This Matters for Kenya’s Future
This partnership isn’t just about tomatoes or supply chains—it’s about building a sustainable future where:
- Farmers earn stable incomes
- Local businesses thrive
- Kenya reduces reliance on imports
As Njoro Canning and Unilever Kenya continue to push localization further, they’re proving that ethical business can drive real, lasting change.
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