Building a Farm from Scratch: Lessons and Advice from Kenya

In this clip from EYL, special guest Kelis shares her incredible journey of building a farm from the ground up in Kenya, offering invaluable insights for anyone curious about agriculture as a business opportunity. She dives into the realities of land acquisition, the true profitability of farming, and why Kenya presents unique advantages compared to places like California or Texas.

Kelis discusses her experience navigating land deals, revealing how prices can vary dramatically depending on factors like proximity to main roads and the deep cultural value of heritage land. If you've ever wondered if land in Kenya can be as affordable as in some US states, she breaks it all down—including why sometimes a small plot can be just as pricey as a full acre.

The conversation shifts to the profitable side of farming, specifically how crops like onions are in high demand due to local supply needs. Kelis offers real numbers, explaining how an $11,000 investment in a five-acre onion farm can yield $30,000–$35,000 per quarter, highlighting agriculture as a practical, lucrative business with plenty of room for growth.

But farming isn’t just about buying land and planting seeds—there’s a whole operational side involving irrigation systems, workforce, pest control, and fencing. Kelis talks about the complex technology and manpower that goes into a successful farm, debunking the myth that farming is old-fashioned or low-tech. She emphasizes the value of local expertise, sharing stories of how Kenyan agronomists and horticulturists have supported her every step of the way.

One of the biggest surprises for Kelis was the incredible generosity and support from the Kenyan community. She explains how locals are always willing to offer advice, share best practices, and genuinely want newcomers to succeed in their farming ventures. These connections have been crucial to her progress, making an otherwise daunting endeavor feel accessible and welcoming.

The clip also touches on practical challenges, from dealing with droughts and pests to installing a borehole (a specialized well system) for consistent irrigation—something that requires technical knowledge and upfront investment but ensures long-term farm sustainability. She offers tips on what to check before buying land, such as the importance of geological surveys to guarantee water access.

Lastly, Kelis highlights the unique ecosystem of Kenyan farms, including encounters with wildlife like hyenas and giraffes, and underscores the importance of working with nature rather than against it—a lesson she’s applying as she grows her farm in a way that maintains the local environment.

If you’re considering investing in agriculture, dreaming of a farm in Africa, or just interested in real-world entrepreneurship outside the typical business world, this clip is packed with practical advice, motivation, and fascinating stories straight from the source.

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