It is noteworthy to assert that Kisima is setting a good example of sustainable farming and innovative ways of cutting the cost of production without compromising quality and quantity in production. These practices are worth emulating as they deliver results based on what Kisima has achieved from these strategies.

“We want to be remembered as the farm which integrated their farming systems to enable sustainability both environmentally and socially to conserve soils for the future generations while improving livelihoods of people in the community” asserted Craig General Manager Kisima Floriculture Kisima which sits at an altitude of 2400M produces large headed premium roses which are sold through the auction. They export over 20 million stems annually, being a smallholder grower with less than 30ha to survive in the sector of big giants; you have to design a unique way of operations. For this, Kisima believes in two major unique ways; cutting cost innovatively and practicing environmentally and socially sustainable farming.

Kisima’s commitment to environmentally and socially sustainable farming has not only enabled them to manage their farm operations successfully but it has also attracted notable accolades for them both locally and internationally. Kisima emerged victorious for the best imported rose in the recently concluded Keukenhof awards with Rosa Hurricane has their headlining variety. They managed to get this award after growing Rosa Hurricane for one year. Rosa Hurricane variety is owned by select breeding. The judges at Keukenhof awards based their judgment on head shape, the opening of the head, the vividness of color, health of foliage, strength of the stems, distribution of thorns and vase life. Rosa Hurricane successfully checked every box to enable Kisima to claim the award.

Kisima also managed to claim a gold award from National farmers’ competition scheme, which is managed collaboratively by Elgon Kenya and the Ministry of Agriculture. Under the new category (Floriculture) which was introduced this year, Kisima managed to scoop a gold award in the category of growers under 30 ha. The decisions were based on the management philosophy of the farm; in terms of farming practices and sustainability.

Sustainability
Kisima has embraced sustainable environmental practices through integrated pest management and agronomic best practices. “I am a firm believer in organic fertilizer because it feeds the soil with the right nutrients,” said Craig. He believes the best way to get the best out of your soils without damaging and negatively impacting the environment is to give back to your soils consistently. Kisima prides themselves in harvesting rainwater from their greenhouses and channeling them to their special lined reservoirs.

Kisima recycles their water through the use of hydroponics systems used in some of the greenhouses. Kisima is also one of the few farms in Kenya which do not use borehole water in their floriculture operations, thus safeguarding the aquifer. Any wastewater generated from our packhouse and canteen is put through a natural wetland process to purify the water.

Personnel
Kisima is an equal employer; they employ over 400 people within the community and this involves people with disabilities. They are also committed to promoting gender equality in their workplace. Through numerous in-house and outsourced workshops, Kisima is very committed in the continuous development of its employees to build an impeccable team whilst scaling up the growth of the farm.

Environmental
Kisima’s commitment towards the environment is heavily evident from various projects they have invested in. Their water conservation programs, carbon offset, and responsible farming ensure Kisima’s environmental footprint is positive. The farm also hosts a wide range of wildlife, as well as the Mt. Kenya – Ngare Ndare Elephant Corridor. The corridor provides for the free movement of elephant and other wildlife between Mt. Kenya and rangelands to the north and represents a critical link for the Lewa world heritage site, and adjacent Borana Conservancy, with the mountain. Additionally, Kisima actively supports the following conservation organizations; Borana Ranch, Mount Kenya trust, Ngare Ndare forest trust, and Lewa Conservancy.

Corporate Social Responsibility
Kisima, through its dedicated Foundation, is recognized as a primary driver of community development in Buuri Sub-County, supporting education, healthcare, water development, and agricultural extension.

Kisima supports seven primary schools and two secondary schools in the vicinity, with communities, Kisima hosts an agricultural demonstration site, and two major field days per year, each attended by well over 1000 farmers. Kisima is proud to serve as a catalyst for enhanced small scale farming systems across the area through agricultural extension and seed potato production.

Kisima plays a pivotal role in the management and protection of the Kisima spring, which feeds the Ngare Nything River – and in supporting the Ngare Nything / Sirgon Water Resource Users Association ensures a sustainable supply of water to well over 20,000 people in adjacent areas.

Kisima believes that in a give and take situation both socially and environmentally. This philosophy has enabled growth and smooth running of farm operations.