BUSINESS PROPOSAL FOR INTEGRATING IMPROVED AVOCADO PRODUCTION FOR SMALL SCALE FARMERS IN KENYA. by Rwathia AgroFarm

RWATHIA AGROFARM.

BUSINESS PROPOSAL FOR INTEGRATING IMPROVED AVOCADO PRODUCTION FOR SMALL SCALE FARMERS IN KENYA. YEAR 2022.

Contents 7. SCOPE OF THE PROJECT ............................................................................................................................... 6 8. BACKGROUND: ............................................................................................................................................... 6 Objectives: .............................................................................................................................................................. 6 b) Specific objectives: ......................................................................................................................................... 6 9. PRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................... 7 10. MITIGATION AGAINST CLIMATIC FLUCTUATION ............................................................................... 7 11. QUALITY ASSURANCE ................................................................................................................................ 7 12. MARKET .......................................................................................................................................................... 8 13. MARKETING STRATEGIES .......................................................................................................................... 8 14. PROJECT ASPECTS:....................................................................................................................................... 9 15. SWOT ANALYSIS......................................................................................................................................... 10 16. FINANCIAL PLAN:....................................................................................................................................... 11 Worked out financial plan is as per the attached excel presentation................................................................. 11 17. CONCLUSIONS:............................................................................................................................................ 11 18. REFERENCES: .............................................................................................................................................. 12

2. ORGANIZATION CULTURE.

Rwathia Agrofarm is a horticultural exporting company incorporated in Kenya in March 2019, dealing with production, packaging and supply of premium quality fruits for the export market. The main products are fresh avocado, mango and passion fruits. In addition, the company offers technical support services and inputs to farmers as credit recoverable from produce supplied.

3. VISION STATEMNT. Through a total response of speed, adaptability and professionalism, our aim is to emerge as market leader within the realms of providing supreme fresh fruits and herbs. We strive to accomplish entire customer satisfaction by offering a pro-active reaction to customer feedback. We envision a nation (Kenya) with an enhanced livelihood that can be achieved through fair and ethical growing and trade in fresh produce. We intend to expand our services globally in order to contribute to a healthy food environment. Rwathia Agrofarm will constantly be striving to increase the company’s efficiency through adoption of new technologies, and continuous improvement of our processes to meet the customers increasing needs.

4. MISSION STATEMENT. We aim to provide rapid and excellent, round-the-clock customer service and value, and to deliver the highest quality fruit and herbs supplies unmatched anywhere in the world. We shall endeavor to achieve sustainable excellence and returns in our services, while ensuring worldwide fresh produce trade within international standards and procedures in a cost-effective manner. We shall align with the number one consumer trend today – fresher and healthier foods, chemical free and nutritionally rich. At Rwathia Agrofarm, we shall deliver a whole world of freshness—no matter who, or where you are. 5. CORE VALUES. At Rwathia Agrofarm, we believe customer satisfaction begins with the earth: the land from which the grower creates fine brands and fine produce that are key to our way of doing business. We believe that integrity, trustworthiness and honesty are integral to who we are as a company, and so, we insist on that at every stage of what we do. We insist on ‘Fair Trade’ principles and ethical business practices that support even the smallest grower. We also stipulate that, the choice of produce we accept, and its delivery to the supermarket shelf and our customers’ tables, be done to the highest ethical and quality standards. It is this passion for getting things right and our refusal to compromise on quality that will establish our reputation in the very promising future of Agribusiness in our Country-Kenya. ‘OUR AFRICAN FOREST COVER SHOULD BE UNDER FRUIT TREES’.

6. PROBLEM STATEMENT. Most people in Sub-Saharan Africa lives in rural areas making their living from agriculture. They are the main Suppliers of agricultural products, whether for the local markets or exports. Agriculture is a key contributor to Sub-Saharan Africa GDP. Yet, this being the case, most of the people in production are still poor and living at subsistence levels below the international poverty line. The reason for this is their low participation in food production value chain. A key feature of agricultural Sector in sub-Sahara Africa is the prevalence of middlemen standing between growers and the market and or the processors/exporters. Exporters prefer to make use of middlemen rather than organizing growers in groups for easy collection and Organized harvesting. Middlemen supplying exporters only select export quality fruit which is about 50 % of Production leaving the rest behind with no means of earning from them or thereafter exploiting them by having to clear them at a throw away price to allow for the consequent flowering period. Another factor affecting livelihoods of small scale farmers’ is reliance on sales and exports of primary produce rather than dealing in processed produce which would yield higher returns. The global trade in processed agricultural products grows faster than trade in primary products. Developed countries dominates the processed product market in which sub-Sahara African countries only ends up enjoying in a small fraction of their revenues Kenya is not in exception of this situation. We advocate not only for farmers’ participation in the exports to be limited to agricultural production but to also elevate from unprocessed products to involvement in Agro-processing the most ideal solutions towards raising their earnings. We envisage Kenya avocado industry becoming a pioneer in embracing this model of operation. Nearly 50% of harvested fruit- and vegetables in Kenya is lost before it reaches the customer. Kenya needs professional food value chains to improve food security and increase the income of the smallholder farmer. A steady and higher income for the farmer enables them to invest in new sustainable and more efficient ways of producing. We believe reducing post-harvest food loss is a flywheel to driving sustainable change in the Kenyan food system. 70% of the avocado grown is by small scale farmers, who typically can make between 600-800 fruits per acre per season. On average each farmer can earn $0.46 per fruit, this therefore implies that their seasonal earnings ranges between $276-368 which goes towards supporting their families. There is paramount need to raise avocado production in Kenya as it goes a long way in alleviating poverty and raising the standards of living of its citizen. Avocados grown in Kenya make up about 17% of the nation’s total horticultural exports. The need for Kenya to export 40% of its avocado produce to China at -30 degrees Celsius, South Africa and other emerging markets presents a great opportunity for Kenyan small scale farmers.

7. SCOPE OF THE PROJECT. In order to address the above underlying problems Rwathia Agrofarm has come up with a project framework aimed at improving the living standards of the farmers by ensuring a seamless and most economical, modern and eco-friendly fruits farming techniques are adopted thereby resulting in improved quality produce, high yields and better returns.

The project target to introduce several basic pillars necessary in actualizing this objective. The major problems identified that Rwathia Agrofarm is dedicated in resolving are: ➢ Very low yields of produce as a result of inadequate techniques and effect of unpredictable climatic fluctuations. ➢ High levels of wastages of fruit on harvest due to poor handling techniques and premature harvesting. ➢ Poor or sub standards produce yielding low returns to farmers. ➢ High costs of farming as result of adoption of traditional farming methods. ➢ Low production capacity due to low crop coverage

8. BACKGROUND: Kenya is currently eighth largest producer and exporter of Avocado globally. However, this does not reflect the true figures on the ground as lots of wastages and losses are experienced as result of two major factors: premature harvesting thereby resulting in lots of fruit being rejected at pack houses and or insufficient training on plant husbandry resulting in compromised output that does not meet the required standards. Avocados are rich in protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals while the oil content consists of polyunsaturated fatty acids. The avocado tree is well known for its low demand of nutrients, this is demonstrated by the low total content of nutrients in the crop as compared with other fruit trees and field crops. This is the main reason avocado can be preferred to grow organically very comfortably.

Objectives: a) Broad objective: To prepare a broad spectrum of organic avocado value chain in Kenya with an ultimate solution to poor earnings realized by the small scale farmers. b) Specific objectives: ➢ To ascertain the underlying overheads associated with increasing crop acreage by availing additional 20000 seedlings per year to farmers in Rwathia Nyahururu and Murang’a County. ➢ To estimate chain costs of trainings. ➢ To come up with ideal alternatives for mitigations of climatic changes and associated budget thereon.

9. PRODUCTION. In order to boost production per acreage Rwathia Agrofarm target to mobilize 1,000 farmers to have on the least a single acre under avocado plantations. One acre will accommodate between 120 to 125 plants depending on the landscape. With a minimum 120 plants per acre Rwathia Agrofarm intend to supply 20,000 certified one-year-old Hass seedlings to these farmers. We will also be involved in the planting process by offering the requisite trainings during the planting session and dispatching qualified agronomist to oversee the exercise.

10. MITIGATION AGAINST CLIMATIC FLUCTUATION. The discussion round the whole world during the year has been about the adverse effects of global warming, carbon emission the effect of which has been felt world over. Erratic weather patterns resulting in typhoons, wild fires, tornados and hurricanes has been the adverse effects experienced in the world worst hit countries being Kiribati, Greece, Turkey, Spain, Philippines, British Columbia in Canada and California and New Orleans in the United States. Increasing the crop cover being one positive approach toward addressing the Global Warming, however if not well managed it can be a major contributor as well to adverse effect of climatic conditions. Rwathia Agrofarm will instill modern farming technologies having conducted a landscape analysis where we intend to sink collective water pans with solar powered drip system to be shared among farmers. For the hilly regions of Murang’a where there is much adequate rainfall we intend to supply water harvesting reservoirs connected to solar powered drip systems. Alongside this we have a budget for sinking boreholes in specific areas where the acreage under cover is big and again connecting the same to solar powered drip system. Our annual targets for this exercise is to have at least 100-acre drip system, 50 water pans, 100 water harvesting reservoirs and at least 10 boreholes.

11. QUALITY ASSURANCE. This being another thorny problem to our farmers whereby over 40% of their harvest is rendered waste mostly due infestation of fruit flies and premature harvesting. Rwathia Agrofarm will source and supply farmers with certified traps to take care of fruit flies alongside this in order to take care of premature harvesting we intend to introduce dry matters testing kits to the farmers. This will help them ascertain the maturity levels of their fruit are to the set standards before allowing any harvest As a budget every farmers is to be supplied with kits at the first year therefore a requirement of 1000 kits and 1000 traps. Aside from this, Cold Hubs are paramount in ensuring the fruit remain fresh after harvesting. Our targets are to have at least 50 solar powered cold hubs and at least 100 hundred collection Centre’s per year.

A solar powered Pack House to be situated near Kenol town in Murang’a where most supply will be coming from with a plan for a second Pack House at Rwathia Nyahururu in four years’ time to handle supplies from the region.

12. MARKET. There is increasing craze of avocado in Kenya and around the world. These days the demand of avocado is very high as compared to production capacity which is very low. Market of organic avocado can be very high and therefore there is no need to create artificial demand of avocado as there is already big existing market. To strike a balance, there is urgent need to boost production through increased crop cover through additional trees and waste management to mitigate on unnecessary loss.

The demand for frozen avocados is growing because of their convenient form and some have described the linkage between frozen food and decreasing food waste. For smallholder farmers to benefit, a tremendous upgrade of the existing value chain to include cutting, peeling and freezing facilities alongside upgrading Kenya’s cold chain infrastructure would be needed. There is lack of technology in Kenya to provide and sustain required temperatures whilst retaining the product integrity. Cryogenic Individual Quick Freezing (IQF) technology, a global solution for the existing gap is needed. This cold chain solution is an advanced global practice for attainment of superior quality products using natural food grade carbon dioxide to attain sub-zero temperatures (0 to -78 degrees Celsius). The avocado world is rapidly developing. With the complexities of delivering “ready-to-eat” avocados, the challenges with waste, and the ever-increasing demands of consumers, avocado quality has become even more important. Our main focus at Rwathia Agrofarm is to mitigate the loss of fruits occasioned by the post-harvest handling. Only the setting up of an Avocado Oil Processing Plant and a Cryogenic Food Processing unit to add value to our avocados can help in eliminating the waste and increasing our small scale avocado farmers’ earnings and thus poverty eradication in our rural areas.

13. MARKETING STRATEGIES. As there is a very big market of organic avocado we will try to keep the marketing simple and sustainable as possible. We will make use modern marketing techniques and strategies for increasing international market penetration. Some of them are as follows: ➢ Cryogenic processing remains the next big thing, freezing our fruit up to negative(-ve) 50 degrees assures a product shelf life of not less than six months therefore nil compromise on product quality. ➢ A well designed and established Website and Social Networking Sites through association with established platforms like the Avocado Society of Kenya. ➢ Market penetration strategy. We will be availing best quality product to our international consumer at negotiated price thereby promoting our brand and making them our brand ambassadors.

14. PROJECT ASPECTS: i.

ii.

iii.

Technical aspects: By embracing cryogenic freezing of our produce we will be cushioning our farmers from loss of their earning by enhancing shelf life of the avocado fruit up to six months enough time for the fruit to have been consumed even in the international market. We intend to keep a good relation with both the consumers and the farmers. Economic aspect: Working with our targeted supplies of 20,000 seedlings will increase avocado cultivation with assurance of ready market for this produce. We will be offering ourselves to assist in trainings on trees handling techniques right from planting, pests and diseases control, pruning, soil analysis and harvesting. We will remain available to them in offering the right seedling and assisting in grafting where necessary as our corporate social responsibility (CSR). Marketing aspect: being a licensed exporters of fruits, vegetables and herbs, we have already entered into export contract with biggest consumers in the world such as X-5 Retail Chain in Eastern Europe, supply expected to start as early February 2022. Meanwhile we are still in discussion with other consumers from France, Germany, United Kingdom and the Netherlands and more contracts will come in soon. Our other target market is the Asian market mainly China, South Korea and Japan with discussion in earnest.

iv.

Environmental aspect: With our target of planting 20,000 Avocado Trees in the first phase, we will not use a single factor that might have any negative impacts to the environment. We will encourage the organic fertilizer and accredited pest control mechanism as directed. We will strictly stick to the principles of organic agriculture and Permaculture.

Managerial aspect: The project will be run by incorporating professionals in each and every sector of operation in collaboration with employees sourced from areas of operations, well trained, and ready to induct and apply skills to small scale farmers the principles of Permaculture and organic agriculture practically in the field, and also be active towards Climate change adaptation and mitigation plans.

15. SWOT ANALYSIS. Strengths

Weaknesses • Poor sea freight connections • Established Markets in the EU and the • Long shipping times GCC states • Poor post-harvest management • Long history of exporting horticulture produce • Lack of discipline in the cool-chain & the • Proximity to the GCC states supplychain • Good climate that allows regular annual yields • Too many opportunist exporters (reputation • Exporters experienced in out-grower risks) management • Long transport time from established • Strong government support pack-houses to sea ports • Good air connections with Europe and the GCC Opportunities Threats • Increased competition from well-organized • Consumption is increasing in the UK South American efficient and low cost and inEurope exporters • Increasing demand by joining the Peruvian • Increased competition from USA shippers andother exporters in generic promotion nowoperating in Europe • Embrace “organic” and Fairtrade to take • Threat from new suppliers denied entry to advantage of the opportunity for higher theUSA because of fruit fly diverting returns exports to Europe • Consolidate the production base to form • Imports from Dominican Republic to USA largermarketing organizations to have recently been banned and the country capitalize on EU importers preference for may target Europe as an alternative market dealing with larger organizations to • The Dominican Republic has established guarantee supply a reputation for “organic” produce and • Introduce effective discipline throughout the may dominate the “organic” avocado supply and marketing chains to establish a market in UK reputation for quality and management • Resurgence of Israeli exports to EU excellence • Australian exporters targeting the GCC states • Through effective training improve post• Asian fruit fly Bactrocera invadens if harvest management to satisfy importers found prevalent in Kenya could result in requirements an EU ban

16. FINANCIAL PLAN: Worked out financial plan is as per the attached excel presentation.

Rwathia agrofarm Ten years financial plan year 2022.xlsx

Considerations (notes to the accounts): ➢ Avocado will start fruiting after 4 years and the discounted sale price of 1kg packet fresh Hass Avocado is equivalent to 1.5 USD irrespective of cryogenically frozen product fetching premium prices. ➢ Dollar exchange discounted to Ksh 100 per dollar ➢ Each acre avocado of avocado taken to accommodate 120 trees. Average production per tree at the first year of fruiting to be 20kg with a 20% increase in the consequent years. ➢ All Capital expenditure to be realized in year one of operation with no other projected expenditures during the period under projection.

17. CONCLUSIONS:

We believe Rwathia Agrofarm will remain a pioneer to offering modern solutions to tribulations experienced by small scale avocado farmers in Sub Saharan Africa, deepening their coffers and scaling down their cost of production by embracing technology. The plight of these farmers will be a key pillar in Agro-processing in Africa thereby improving food security and carbon emission regulator through forest cover with probable chances of earning the same small scale farmers Carbon credits.

18. REFERENCES: Carman, H.F., T.L. Saitone, and R.J. Sexton 2013. Five-year evaluation of the hass avocado board’s promotional programs: 2008-2012. Agricultural and resource economics update 17: 1-55. González-Estudillo, J.C., J.B. González-Campos, F. Nápoles-Rivera, J.M. Ponce-Ortega, and M.M. ElHalwagi 2017. Optimal planning for sustainable production of avocado in mexico. Process Integration and Optimization for Sustainability 1: 109-120. Lahav, E., and A. Kadman 1980. Avocado fertilisation, International Potash Institute Menzel, C.M., and M. Le Lagadec 2014. Increasing the productivity of avocado orchards using high-density plantings: A review. Scientia Horticulturae 177: 21-36. Moore, N.Y., E.M. Pint, and L.S. Dixon 1993. Assessment of the economic impacts of california’s drought on urban areas. RAND, Santa Monica, CA. Mosquera, M., E.A. Evans, and R. Ploetz 2015. Assessing the profitability of avocado production in south florida in the presence of laurel wilt. Theoretical Economics Letters 5: 343. Wijana, S., U. Effendi, and E. Setiati 2012. Optimation of avocado fruit added on the ice cream product of coconut milk. Jurnal Teknologi Pertanian 2.

12.Latest market analysis is as follows.

BENSON W. GITIGI OPERATION DIRECTOR

B.COM(FINANCE)/C.P.A.K

Rwathia Agrofarm. Who We Are. Rwathia Agrofarm is a general partnership incorporated under Cap, 499, section 14 on 14-3-2019 in Kenya to engage in Farming and Exporting of organically grown fresh produce-mainly Fruits and Herbs.

Rwathia Agrofarm is also, duly licensed by the Agriculture and Food Authority-Horticultural Crops Directorate to export horticultural produce as specified under the Crops Act 2013 from 1st -July-2021 to 30-Jun-2022, - to export the following products; -Fruits, Medicinal, Aromatic Products-

(Herbs & Spices) And Vegetables.

Rwathia Agrofarm is also registered with Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service [KEPHIS] and granted access to export avocado (Fruits).

Avocado(Vegetables)- Freezing (Cryogenic)..mp4

We are, based in JUJA, along Thika Road.

About-Us. Rwathia Agrofarm is a general partnership whose core business is Farming and Exporting of organically grown fresh produce-mainly Fruits and Herbs. We are an Exporter of the highest quality fresh fruits and Herbs. The company has been in operation since 2019 and is located at JUJA, along Thika Rd. Rwathia Agrofarm is a proud supporter of local farmers and locally grown fruits and Herbs.

Our Vision. Through a total response of speed, adaptability and professionalism, our aim is to emerge as market leader within the realms of providing supreme fresh fruits and herbs. We strive to accomplish entire customer satisfaction by offering a pro-active reaction to customer feedback. We envision a nation (Kenya) with an enhanced livelihood that can be achieved through fair and ethical growing and trade in fresh produce. We intend to expand our services globally in order to contribute to a healthy food environment. Rwathia Agrofarm will constantly be striving to increase the company’s efficiency through adoption of new technologies, and continuous improvement of our processes to meet the customers increasing needs.

Our Core Values. At Rwathia Agrofarm, we believe customer satisfaction begins with the earth: the land from which the grower creates fine brands and fine produce that are key to our way of doing business. We believe that integrity, trustworthiness and honesty are integral to who we are as a company, and so, we insist on that at every stage of what we do. We insist on ‘Fair Trade’ principles and ethical business practices that support even the smallest grower. We also stipulate that, the choice of produce we accept, and its delivery to the supermarket shelf and your/our customers’ tables, be done to the highest ethical and quality standards. It is this passion for getting things right and our refusal to compromise on quality that will establish our reputation in the very promising future of Agribusiness in our Country-Kenya.

‘OUR AFRICAN FOREST COVER SHOULD BE UNDER FRUIT TREES’.

We Farm-You Eat.

Directors: Samuel Karanja Muiruri. Joseph Kamau Gitigi Benson Waithaka Gitigi- (Operations Director).

https://rwathiaagrofarm.co.ke https://www.facebook.com/rwathia.agrofarm https://twitter.com/rwathiaagrofarm https://www.go4worldbusiness.com/members/view/Rwathia_AgroFarm rwathiaagrofarm@yahoo.com rwathiaagrofarm@gmail.com https://agriprofocus.com/profile/joseph.gitigi.7628 https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Avocado-Fresh-HassAvocado_1600256166475.html?spm=a2700.7735675.normal_offer.d_title.33ad3528BVXX 61&s=p&fbclid=IwAR19hEBI_0IIvk7qvPDCiG335m6zM66fEa2DOlgdzfQbl33eSIGwKTrSAvo &bypass=true

ANUGA FOODTEC BROCHURE

4.15. RWATHIA AGROFARM

https://rwathiaagrofarm.co.ke/

Joseph Kamau Gitigi Director +254721311391

Benson Waithaka Gitigi Financial/Operations Director +254731730458

BRIEF DESCRIPTION Rwathia Agrofarm is a general partnership incorporated under Cap, 499, section 14 on 14-3-2019 in Kenya to engage in Farming and Exporting of organically grown fresh produce-mainly Fruits and Herbs. Rwathia Agrofarm is also, duly licensed by the Agriculture and Food Authority-Horticultural Crops Directorate to export horticultural produce as specified under the Crops Act 2013 from 1st -July-2021 to 30-Jun-2022, - to export the following products; -Fruits, Medicinal, Aromatic Products. PRODUCTS OR SERVICES     

Frozen Avocado. Fresh Avocado. Fresh Herbs. Fresh Vegetables. Fresh Fruits

SEGMENT INTERESTS  Food Processing  Food Packaging  Digitalization  Automation EXPECTATIONS AND OUTCOMES OF VISITING THE FAIR  Securing Market for our Products.  Securing Partnerships for our project.  Securing the right Technology for our project.  Securing Finance for our project.  Securing marketing Agencies for our products LINK TO BROCHURE

https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX1vTXeLJnxg2l79yc2lb6gANDw_nAaGEeH77gWGXefoWls_0IDFDCRICpifnbP_Pv4g/pub

Kenyan Frozen Avocados.

Globally, the market for fresh avocado is currently facing a number of challenges. A limited supply unable to keep pace with the quickly growing demand, lack of convenience for the consumer with a highly perishable product, significant food waste, and short shelf-life – are some of the main issues which hinder the development in this sector.

In Kenya, there are frequent bans on the export of fresh avocado fruit varieties to overseas markets to curb the harvesting of immature crops. Frozen avocados, however, seem to be able to address all these challenges. With many more avocado varieties suitable for freezing than for fresh export, Kenyan avocado growers and exporters can significantly increase the supply. Used in various recipes, avocado cubes, halves, and chunks, are a great way to make guacamole on a whim or whip it into blended smoothies, marketing convenience to the modern consumer and avoiding the environmental impact of any food waste. These are just a few of the main reasons we receive inquiries from Avocado importers, for our frozen Kenyan avocados in various sizes and specifications. (A new business opportunity for Kenyan avocados). Our parent company Rwathia Agrofarm- an agricultural company is dreaming big. We look forward to processing frozen avocado chunks and halves from Kenya. Things are freezing up: Once picked, avocados begin to lose their nutritional value and freezing in masses lumps the fruit together. The IQF technology prevents this from happening - chunks and halves are Individually Quickly Frozen to capture the peak of freshness and emerge with their flavour tried, tested, and proven.

(IQF Avocado products to suit manufacturing needs). For the catering and manufacturing industries, coming in conveniently pre-cut, Kenyan IQF Avocado chunks and halves allows so many versatile options for different products for your customers. These include but are not limited to: (i)- Rich creamy and nutrient-dense smoothies and juices that your customers will appreciate. (ii)-Own private label brand pre-packaged avocado to be used in home recipes (ii)-Sandwiches, wraps, and burritos, incorporating a healthy fat that will have customers full and satisfied when leaving your establishment. (iv)- Chunks and halves ready for slicing, dicing, and mashing into sauces, guacamole, dressing, and avocado oil. With so many creations to be discovered, your next signature menu item will benefit from these IQF diced avocados while saving on the cost of labour.

(Packed just right): Kenyan frozen avocados are packed as per the customer's requirements, the most popular being bags of 500grams. Should the customer require 1kg packing, this is possible, as is 5kg / 10kgs for more industrial needs.

(i)-Create customer loyalty and increase margins when you offer delicious avocado products with

your unique logo. (ii)-The avocados can also be labelled into plain bags with generic labelling to suit your needs.

(Shipping):

Depending on the shipping lines used, Kenyan frozen avocados would take 20-35 days to Europe and China (the main markets for Kenyan frozen avocados) in containers of minus 18 degrees centigrade from the port of Mombasa. (We Farm): We are connected to the earth and love our work in planting avocados. Running a farm is hard work for us and our expert growers, but every day of harvest is a special day everyone.

We Farm-You Eat.

CARBACID

CRYOGENIC FREEZING OF FRUITS

Production Challenges of Frozen Fruit 

Technology to sustain and scale operations at desired temperatures

 -20 to -78 degrees celsius for frozen fruit



Retention of product integrity when frozen i.e. superior frozen fruit with high nutritional value that

retains

 original product texture,  Colour & freshness,

 Moisture & natural appearance



Time taken to Freeze & Thaw the product

Solution is cryogenic freezing using carbon dioxide gas (-79 deg Celsius)

Cryogenic IQF Freezing VS Mechanical Freezing 

Cryogenic freezing is the application of sub – zero temperatures to food processing using cryogenic gases such as carbon dioxide at a maximum of -78°C.



Cryogenic freezing is 3 times faster than mechanical freezing with the below benefits: •

Tiny crystal formation inside and outside the cell membrane which do not temper with fruits and vegetables structure.

•

Locked in product-moisture thus reducing dehydration losses by over 50%

•

Ultra –rapid quick freezing time of up to 1 hour compared other forms of freezing per cycle

•

The fast freezing rate of cryogen slows down bacterial activity and retains the original properties of fruits

•

Im-permeability of the product to oxygen

Benefits of Cryogenic freezing 

Preservation of the fruit cell membrane  Enhanced freshness & natural appearance  Superior quality & locked in product moisture



Longer shelf life ;  6-12 months retained at the desired temperature



Ultra -rapid quick freezing action of max. 1 hour per cycle

 Carbacid Cryo-freezer Facility

No heat thawing or extreme temperatures required due to sublimation properties of Carbon-dioxide.

Benefits of Cryogenic freezing  Cryogenic Freezing (at - 78°C):  improvement of food quality by quick freezing process (avoiding macro crystals and tissue damaging)

Water Crystal

1. Mechanical freezing : Slow quality freezing

2.Cryo- freezing : Ultra –rapid quick freezing

Opportunity areas for processors by cryogenically freezing fruit

1. High value product  High value fruit due to the 100% mesocarp ( fruit flesh) thus fetching higher margins  No fruit rejects as any ripe fruit is processed

2. Size of fruit will seize to be a differentiating export factor  In the frozen sliced state the consumer is unable to differentiate the size of the whole fruit .All fruits will therefore be processed reducing low margins value due rejects. 3. Maximum processing during glut period  All fruits will be processed during the glut period and stored for supply during the low season

Process flow illustration

CARBACID COMPLIANCE AND CERTIFICATION ISBT AUTHENTIC LAB RESULTS FOR:

1.ISBT: BEVERAGE GRADE CO2 2.COCA COLA: BEVERAGE GRADE CO2 3.PEPSI-COLA: BEVERAGE GRADE CO2

CERTIFICATION FOR: 1.ISO 22000:2005 2.ISO/TS 20002-1:2009 3.FSSC 22000

4.HALAL

THANK YOU

Cryogenic Tunnel Freezer

CRYO- FREEZING|TRIALS

Cryogenic Freezing The application of sub – zero temperatures to food processing using cryogenic gases such as carbon dioxide at a maximum of -79°C for attainment is superior quality frozen products. Cryo-freezing is the most advanced form of freezing globally. Benefits Retention of product integrity – freshness , texture , appearance and taste Longer shelf life 6-12 months Locked in product moisture Reduced freezing time Carbacid acquired a 300kg/hr cabinet cryo-freezer with the Individual Quick Freezing technology

The machine is a proof of concept to customers through trials

Frozen Potatoe Chips 3

COMPLIANCE AND CERTIFICATION ISBT AUTHENTIC LAB RESULTS FOR: 1.ISBT: BEVERAGE GRADE CO2

2.COCA COLA: BEVERAGE GRADE CO2 3.PEPSI-COLA: BEVERAGE GRADE CO2

CERTIFICATION FOR:

1.ISO 22000:2005 2.ISO/TS 20002-1:2009 3.FSSC 22000 4.HALAL

Avocados grown in Kenya make up about 17% of the nation’s total horticultural exports. The need for Kenya to export 40% of its avocado produce to China at -30 degrees Celsius, South Africa and other emerging markets presents a great opportunity for Kenyan small scale farmers.

Rwathia Agrofarm

The demand for frozen avocados is growing because of their convenient form and some have described the linkage between frozen food and decreasing food waste.

Cryogenic Individual Quick Freezing (IQF) technology,is a global solution for the existing gap. This cold chain solution is an advanced global practice for attainment of superior quality products using natural food grade carbon dioxide to attain sub-zero temperatures (0 to -78 degrees Celsius). The avocado world is rapidly developing. With the complexities of delivering “ready-to-eat” avocados, the challenges with waste, and the ever-increasing demands of consumers, avocado quality has become even more important. Our main focus at Rwathia Agrofarm is to mitigate the loss of fruits occasioned by the post-harvest handling, hence reduction of food waste along the value chain.

Agriculture & Food Authority

Rwathia Agrofarm, JUJA, Along Thika Road. Kenya

Tel: 0202108168 rwathiaagrofarm@yahoo.com rwathiaagrofarm@gmail.com

Twitter: Facebook: Instagram: TikTok: LinkedIn:

@RwathiaAgroFarm @RwathiaAgroFarm @RwathiaAgroFarm @RwathiaAgroFarm Joseph Gitigi

Avacados

Passion fruit

Mangoes

basil

rosemary

Our Mission. We aim to provide rapid and excellent, around-the-clock customer service and value, and to deliver the highest quality fruit and herbs supplies unmatched anywhere in the world. We shall endeavour to achieve sustainable excellence and returns in our services, while ensuring worldwide fresh produce trade within interna onal standards and procedures in a cost-effec ve manner. We shall align with the number one consumer trend today – fresher and healthier foods, chemical free and nutri onally rich. At Rwathia Agrofarm, we shall deliver a whole world of freshness—no ma er who, or where you are. Our Core Values. At Rwathia Agrofarm, we believe customer sa sfac on begins with the earth: the land from which the grower creates fine brands and fine produce that are key to our way of doing business. We believe that integrity, trustworthiness and honesty are integral to who we are as a company, and so, we insist on that at every stage of what we do. We insist on 'Fair Trade' principles and ethical business prac ces that support even the smallest grower. We also s pulate that, the choice of produce we accept, and its delivery to the supermarket shelf and your/our customers' tables, be done to the highest ethical and quality standards. It is this passion for ge ng things right and our refusal to compromise on quality that will establish our reputa on in the very promising future of Agribusiness in our Country-Kenya.

Who We Are. Rwathia Agrofarm is a general partnership incorporated under Cap, 499, sec on 14 on 14-3-2019 in Kenya to engage in Farming and Expor ng of organically grown fresh produce-mainly Fruits and Herbs. Rwathia Agrofarm is also, duly licensed by the Agriculture and Food Authority-Hor cultural Crops Directorate to export hor cultural produce as speciﬁed under the Crops Act 2013 from 1st -July-2021 to 30-Jun-2022, to export the following products; -Fruits, Medicinal, Aroma c Products- (Herbs & Spices) And Vegetables. Rwathia Agrofarm is also registered with Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service [KEPHIS] and granted access to export avocado (Fruits). We are, based in JUJA, along Thika Road. About-Us. Rwathia Agrofarm is a general partnership whose core business is Farming and Expor ng of organically grown fresh produce-mainly Fruits and Herbs. We are an Exporter of the highest quality fresh fruits and Herbs. The company has been in opera on since 2019 and is located at JUJA, along Thika Rd. Rwathia Agrofarm is a proud supporter of local farmers and locally grown fruits and Herbs.

Our Vision. Through a total response of speed, adaptability and professionalism, our aim is to emerge as market leader within the realms of providing supreme fresh fruits and herbs. We strive to accomplish en re customer sa sfac on by oﬀering a pro-ac ve reac on to customer feedback. We envision a na on (Kenya) with an enhanced livelihood that can be achieved through fair and ethical growing and trade in fresh produce. We intend to expand our services globally in order to contribute to a healthy food environment. Rwathia Agrofarm will constantly be striving to increase the company's eﬃciency through adop on of new technologies, and con nuous improvement of our processes to meet the customers increasing needs.

KENYA PLANT HEALTH INSPECTORATE SERVICE (KEPHIS) HEADQUARTERS - Oloolua Ridge, Karen P. O. Box 49592 00100 GPO Nairobi, Kenya, Tel: 0206618000 / 0709891000 E-mails:director@kephis.org Website: www.kephis.org

Our Ref: KEPHIS/HQ/4/19/Vol.44/(296)

Date: 28th July, 2020

Rwathia Agrofarm P.O. Box 13257 - 00200 NAIROBI Email: malusiedward@gmail.com RE: ACCESS TO ELECTRONIC CERTIFICATION SYSTEM Reference is made to your request for access to the Electronic Certification System (ECS). You have been granted access to export avocado and you are requested to do the following:• • • • • •

Familiarize yourself with the ECS systems operations through the user guide on our website. Apply online for registration. Make arrangements to present your consignments at KEPHIS JKIA for final inspection and issuance of a Phytosanitary certificate. Safeguard your ECS password at all times. Notify KEPHIS in case of change of commodity. Make payments for services rendered.

Kindly note that export of non-compliant or unauthorized products and documentation errors may lead to restriction of your account.

For: Hellen Mwarey HEAD – BIOSAFETY AND PHYTOSANITARY SERVICES

GLOBALG.A.P Standard (Modalities and Checklist)

e-Learning training organised as part of the NExT Kenya Programme Delivered to :

Joseph Gitigi From 4th May to 5th June 2022 Trainer(s) :

Training Unit Manager

Isaac NDAMANHYILU

Camille DE WERGIFOSSE

Jedidah WANDUTU

Benson Waithaka Gitigi Telephone no: +254 731 730 458 Email: gitigibenson@gmail.com

Personal Profile A result-driven and committed accounting and finance professional with an in-depth experience of more than 14 years in Producing financial reports and developing strategies based on financial research, producing error-free accounting reports, analyzing financial information and summarizing financial status. Responsible for helping businesses make financial decisions by collecting, tracking, and communicating the financial position of a company. Adept at record transactions, compiling and analyzing data, performing audits. Working with large amounts of numerical data and handling multiple tasks with deadlines, I strive to provide transparency working efficiently without sacrificing accuracy. I also have the capacity to comprehend and clearly communicate complex concepts in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, and a proven ability to work across numerous lines of businesses and deal with the demands of senior management. I am seeking to position myself in a thriving, growing organization with a professional working environment that utilizes my existing portfolio of skills at maximum potential and provides opportunities for expanding and refining them while executing critical services towards the prosperity and growth of the organization.

Education 2013 - 2017

1996 - 1999

Bachelor of Commerce, Finance Option Mount Kenya University Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education Kiriti mixed Secondary School

Professional Qualifications ▪

Jan 2001- June 2005: CPA II, III(K); Star College of Management Studies

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Jan - Dec 2001: CPA I; Kenya Polytechnic

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2005: Computer Proficiency -Introduction -Windows, MS-Dos, Word Processing - MS Word, Microsoft Accounting - MS Excel, Lotus 123, Accounting packages - sage accounting, Accounting systematic, Pastel accounting, Database Management - MS Access, D base (111), Enterprise resource planning (ERP)

Skills ▪

Communication Skills: I am an excellent communicator who effectively conveys information both verbally and in writing. I am also a keen listener and give prompt feedback.

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Analytical Skills: Recognizes areas of weaknesses requiring improvements and makes recommendations to the management for consideration, approval, and implementation.

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Financial Skill: I am skilled in measuring financial risks and then developing and implementing strategies to minimize that risk. Advising on the financial implications and consequences of business decisions.

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Accounting Skills: Knowledge of accounting and bookkeeping terminology and practices; Ability to understand and apply current accounting guidelines, system updates and revisions, and policy changes.

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Planning and Organizing: Refined planning and organizational skills that balance work, team support and ad-hoc responsibilities in a timely and professional manner.

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Decision Making and Problem-Solving Skills: I am able to make timely, well-considered and logical decisions on problem situations that may arise so as to find appropriate and workable solutions.

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Time Management: Ability to prioritize work and manage time effectively.

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Work Experience April 2014 - Jan 2018

Equity Bank -Gilgil Branch

Position: Operations Manager Responsibilities: ▪

Providing leadership on branch operation issues.

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Ensuring 100% compliance with bank policies and procedures.

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Ensuring effective cash management processes.

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Promotion of bank corporate image at all times.

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Ensuring adherence to CBK prudential guidelines.

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Management of staff issues effectively with proper escalation.

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Provision of high quality and timely services to customers.

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Evaluation of daily branch performance against set targets and guiding towards making quick wins and avoiding unnecessary slippages. Nov 2011 - March 2014

Equity Bank -Queensway Nairobi

Position: Senior Relationship Officer -Cash Responsibilities: ▪

Management of branch cash levels.

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Monitoring and authorization of teller's cash transactions.

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End of day cash reconciliations for teller and reserve.

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Replenishment and repatriation of cash to Cash Centre. Nov 2010 - Oct 2011

Equity Bank -Nanyuki Branch

Position: Branch Accountant Responsibilities: ▪

Bank reconciliations

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Preparation of branch weekly and monthly returns.

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Monitoring of income and expenditures general ledgers.

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Salary uploading /posting and reconciliations.

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Verification of purchases and sales order of shares.

Other Positions Held ▪

Jan 2006 - Oct 2010: Account Opening Supervisor/Custodial Manager at Equity Bank Othaya Branch

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Jan - June 2006: External Auditor at Muinde and Company

Additional Information Training and Workshop ▪

Standard Course in Senior First Aid by Kenya Red Cross

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Account opening and custodial training at Equity Centre

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Fire and first aid training by Naromoru River Lodge

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Custodian compliance and risk assessment training at Equity Centre Nairobi

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Effective, leadership and performance review meeting at the Equity Centre.

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Financial management workshops at Hotel Merica Nakuru.

Hobbies and Interests ▪

Reading, Swimming, Travelling, Community Work

Referees Stephen Mugwe Thuo Rtd Finance Manager, Central Bank of Kenya Telephone no: +254 722 841 750 Joseph Mukabi Audit Senior, Muinde and co Associates Telephone no: +254 722 722 682 Karanja Nyingi Business Growth and Development Manager, Equity Bank (k) Ltd Telephone no: +254 722962529

BUSINESS PROPOSAL FOR INTEGRATING IMPROVED AVOCADO PRODUCTION FOR SMALL SCALE FARMERS IN KENYA.

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14. PROJECT ASPECTS

15. SWOT ANALYSIS