Kenya’s top chilli exporter brings hundreds of farmers on board to meet rising global demand.

As global demand for African-grown chillies continues to heat up, one of Kenya’s top chilli exporters is expanding its network by recruiting hundreds of new farmers across the country. The move comes in response to growing orders from international markets, especially in Europe and the Middle East, where Kenyan chillies are praised for their flavour, colour and organic appeal.

The company, known for its strict adherence to export standards, is working closely with smallholder farmers, offering them training on sustainable farming practices, pest management and post-harvest handling. This expansion not only promises improved livelihoods for farmers but also positions Kenya as a leading player in the competitive horticulture export market.

Behind this success story is a powerful tool, traceability. By implementing traceability systems across its supply chain, the exporter has been able to track each batch of chillies from the farm where it was grown, through the processing stages, all the way to the end customer abroad. This level of transparency is what gives global buyers the confidence that the produce is safe, of high-quality and grown under regulated, sustainable conditions.

Traceability has also enabled the company to identify and on-board farmers more efficiently. With digital tracking, it can monitor farmer compliance, ensure good agricultural practices are followed and provide real-time support when issues arise. This has opened the door for more small-scale farmers to participate in export markets, opportunities that were previously out of reach due to lack of documentation or visibility.

As chilli farming turns into a hot opportunity for rural households, it is clear that traceability is not just about meeting export requirements, it is about building a trusted, inclusive and sustainable supply chain that benefits both producers and consumers.