A group of youths in Kibera’s Jamhuri has ventured into the flower growing business to as it seeks to reap from the December holidays.
According to their leader Arnold Anthony, they started the business in 2013, and plant flowers which they sell during the Christmas period as the flowers are on high demand.
“We discovered that many people were buying flowers during the Christmas season two years ago (2013). We decided to try planting and selling them at throw away prices. Within one week, we had run out of stock so we discovered we could reap money from the business,” he said.
Arnold said the following year, they planted a lot of flowers which they reaped a lot of money from. They have chosen flowers because they are scarce in Nairobi.
“Trees are sold everywhere in the city. Flowers can only be found in the city centre, we decided to start a flower farm so that we could compete with those in the tree business. However, we have few competitors because those selling flowers do roses while we sell flowers than can be planted at home,” added Anold.
The group of eight has every reason to smile since they get support from their parents.
“Our efforts are ever supported by our parents. They can even connect us to customers. Most of our customers are white people and residents who travel upcountry during the Christmas season,” said Peter Mugisa.