Anthony Kinoti Mugambi has transformed 20 acres of arid land in Kathuura, Kiagu, Central Imenti, Meru County into a dragon fruit farm called Gravity Farms. He began trials in 2012 and harvested first fruits in 2020 after overcoming challenges. The farm now grows multiple varieties and employs 10 people.
Anthony Kinoti Mugambi bought two acres in 2003 in Kathuura village, Kiagu, Central Imenti, Meru County, an arid, rocky area with intense heat and rain-fed crops only. Land cost Sh80,000 per acre then. As a communications engineer, he initially grew maize and beans. By 2012 he owned 15 acres, now 50, with 20 under pitaya or dragon fruit. The idea came from a China visit in the early 2000s, where he saw a pink fruit priced at $10. Research confirmed it as a drought-resistant cactus. 2012 trials failed due to excess water, but after eight years, first harvest in 2020 from four plants. He now grows red, white, and yellow varieties. “Yellow is sweetest but matures slowly,” he says. At 900m above sea level, the farm uses rainwater harvesting, river water, and reservoirs. He quit his job in 2018 and registered Gravity Farms in 2021. Prices range Sh500-Sh2,500 per kg, sold mainly locally. “First, I want Kenya self-sufficient,” he told Akilimali. Produces 100,000 seedlings monthly, launched new Kika variety this year. Employs 10 people, land value now over Sh500,000 per acre. Challenges include low market awareness. “Farming is a long journey,” he explains. He believes Kenya could lead global production.