Soybean farming is gaining popularity in Kenya due to its economic and nutritional value. The crop is a rich source of protein and oil, making it an essential ingredient in many food products. Soybeans are also used as animal feed, and their by-products are used in the production of biofuels and other industrial products.

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Soy bean varieties in Kenya

There are several soybean varieties that are grown in Kenya, which are adapted to different agro-ecological zones and have different characteristics such as maturity period, yield potential, disease resistance, and nutritional quality. Some of the popular soybean varieties in Kenya include:

  1. Gazelle – This is a high-yielding variety that matures in 90-100 days. It is resistant to bacterial pustule and has good seed quality.
  2. SB 19 – This is a mid-maturing variety that takes about 100-110 days to mature. It has good seed quality and is resistant to bacterial pustule and soybean mosaic virus.
  3. Pannar 522 – This is a high-yielding variety that matures in 90-100 days. It has good seed quality and is resistant to bacterial pustule and soybean rust.
  4. TGx 1903-11F – This is a fast-maturing variety that takes about 75-80 days to mature. It has good seed quality and is resistant to bacterial pustule and soybean rust.
  5. TGx 1987-10F – This is a high-yielding variety that matures in 90-100 days. It is resistant to soybean rust and has good seed quality.

These varieties, among others, are available from different seed companies in Kenya such as Kenya Seed Company, Pannar Seed Kenya, and Dryland Seed Company or online virtual agrovet. The choice of variety to grow depends on factors such as the agro-ecological zone, market demand, and farmer preferences.

Basics of soybean farming in Kenya.

  1. Climate and Soil Requirements Soybeans require warm temperatures of between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius for optimum growth. They also need well-drained soils with a pH of 6 to 7.5. In Kenya, soybeans are grown in the highlands and mid-altitude regions, including the Rift Valley, Central, Eastern, and Western regions.
  2. Land Preparation The land should be cleared of any vegetation and debris. The soil should be plowed and harrowed to a fine tilth to ensure that the seedlings can emerge easily. Soil tests should be carried out to determine the soil’s nutrient status, and any deficiencies should be corrected.
  3. Seed Selection and Planting Soybeans should be planted using certified seeds to ensure good yields. The recommended planting time is during the rainy season, between March to May and October to November. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 2 to 4 cm, with a spacing of 45 cm between rows and 10 to 15 cm between plants.
  4. Weed Control Weeds can significantly reduce soybean yields, and thus effective weed control is necessary. Manual weeding and the use of herbicides are the common methods of weed control. Farmers should be careful when using herbicides to avoid damaging the soybean plants.
  5. Fertilizer Application Soybeans require adequate nutrients for good growth and yields. Fertilizer application should be based on soil tests, and the recommended rates should be followed. Phosphorus and potassium are essential nutrients for soybeans, and nitrogen should be applied in small amounts to avoid excessive vegetative growth.
  6. Pest and Disease Control Soybeans are susceptible to pests and diseases, and thus effective control measures should be implemented. Common pests include aphids, pod borers, and spider mites, while diseases include bacterial blight, soybean rust, and bean leaf beetle. Farmers should use integrated pest management practices to control pests and diseases.
  7. Harvesting and Storage Soybeans are ready for harvest 90 to 120 days after planting. The pods should be harvested when they turn brown and dry. The pods should be threshed to remove the seeds, which can then be dried and stored. Proper storage is necessary to prevent pest infestation and spoilage.

Soybean farming is a viable economic venture in Kenya due to the high demand for the crop. Proper land preparation, seed selection, planting, weed control, fertilizer application, pest, and disease control, and harvesting and storage practices are essential for good yields. With proper management practices, soybean farming can be a profitable venture for small-scale farmers in Kenya.

Profitability of soy bean farming in Kenya

Soybean farming has become an increasingly popular agricultural activity in Kenya, especially among small-scale farmers. Soybeans are a versatile crop, which can be used for various purposes, including animal feed, human consumption, and industrial applications. In this article, we will discuss the profitability of soybean farming in Kenya, including the factors that influence it.

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Factors affecting profitability

There are several factors that can impact the profitability of soybean farming in Kenya. Some of these factors include:

  1. Land preparation and planting: Land preparation is a critical factor in soybean farming, and it can significantly impact the yield and profitability of the crop. The cost of land preparation varies depending on the region and the type of equipment used. Similarly, the cost of planting varies based on the seed variety and the planting method.
  2. Pest and disease control: Pests and diseases can significantly reduce the yield and profitability of soybean farming. Common pests and diseases that affect soybean crops in Kenya include aphids, cutworms, soybean rust, and bacterial blight. Farmers need to invest in effective pest and disease control measures to ensure a high yield and profitability.
  3. Fertilizer application: Fertilizer application is crucial in soybean farming, and it can significantly impact the yield and profitability of the crop. The amount and type of fertilizer required depend on the soil type and the seed variety. Proper fertilizer application can help to improve the yield and profitability of the crop.
  4. Harvesting and post-harvest management: Harvesting and post-harvest management are critical factors in soybean farming, and they can significantly impact the profitability of the crop. The cost of harvesting varies depending on the harvesting method and the labor required. Similarly, the cost of post-harvest management, including drying, storage, and transportation, varies depending on the location and the type of equipment used.

Profitability of soybean farming

The profitability of soybean farming in Kenya varies depending on various factors, including the market demand, the yield, and the production cost. In general, soybean farming can be profitable for farmers who invest in the right inputs and follow best farming practices.

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Market demand of soybean farming in Kenya

The market demand for soybeans in Kenya has been growing steadily, driven by the increasing demand for animal feed, cooking oil, and other industrial applications. Currently, Kenya imports most of its soybean requirements, providing an opportunity for local farmers to tap into this market. The local market for soybeans is also growing, with a rising demand for soy-based products.

Yield of soybean farming in Kenya

The yield of soybean crops in Kenya varies depending on various factors, including the soil type, the seed variety, and the farming practices. On average, farmers can expect a yield of between 1.5 to 2.5 metric tons per hectare. However, with proper inputs and good farming practices, farmers can achieve higher yields, up to 4 metric tons per hectare.

Production cost of soy bean farming in Kenya

The production cost of soybean farming in Kenya varies depending on various factors, including the seed variety, the soil type, and the farming practices. On average, the production cost for soybean farming is between Kshs. 50,000 to Kshs. 80,000 per hectare. However, this cost can be significantly reduced by using improved seed varieties, adopting good farming practices, and investing in cost-effective pest and disease control measures.

Soybean farming can be a profitable venture for farmers in Kenya, provided they invest in the right inputs and follow best farming practices. The profitability of soybean farming depends on various factors, including the market demand, the yield, and the production cost. With the growing demand for soy-based products in Kenya, there is a significant opportunity for local farmers to tap into this market and increase their profitability

Cost analysis of soybean farming in Kenya

The cost of production for soybean farming in Kenya varies depending on several factors such as land preparation, seed selection, fertilization, and pest control. The following is a breakdown of the cost of production for soybean farming in Kenya.

  1. Land Preparation: Land preparation involves plowing, harrowing, and levelling of the land. The cost of land preparation varies depending on the size of the land and the availability of farm machinery. On average, land preparation for one acre of soybean farming in Kenya costs about Ksh. 15,000
  2. Seed Selection: Selecting high-quality soybean seeds is crucial for a successful soybean farming venture. The cost of soybean seeds varies depending on the variety and the quantity required. On average, the cost of soybean seeds for one acre of farming in Kenya is about Ksh. 10,000.
  3. Fertilization: Soybeans require sufficient nutrients to produce high yields. The cost of fertilizers for soybean farming in Kenya varies depending on the soil fertility and the type of fertilizer used. On average, the cost of fertilization for one acre of soybean farming in Kenya is about Ksh. 8,000.
  4. Pest Control: Soybean farming is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can affect yields. The cost of pest control measures such as pesticides and herbicides varies depending on the severity of the pest infestation. On average, the cost of pest control for one acre of soybean farming in Kenya is about Ksh. 5,000.
  5. Labor Costs: Labor costs include the cost of hiring labor for activities such as land preparation, planting, weeding, and harvesting. The cost of labor varies depending on the region and the prevailing wage rates. On average, the cost of labor for one acre of soybean farming in Kenya is about Ksh. 20,000.
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Total Cost of Production: The total cost of production for one acre of soybean farming in Kenya is the sum of the costs mentioned above. Therefore, the total cost of production for one acre of soybean farming in Kenya is about Ksh. 40,000.

Conclusion: Soybean farming is a lucrative venture for farmers in Kenya, given the high demand for soybean products both locally and internationally. However, farmers need to conduct a comprehensive cost analysis to understand the investment required and potential returns. The cost of production for one acre of soybean farming in Kenya is about Ksh. 45,000. Therefore, farmers should ensure they have sufficient capital before venturing into soybean farming to achieve maximum returns.

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