Chris Kirubi’s 405-hectare farm focused on bananas and avocados

The late business magnate Chris Kirubi, known for his diverse investments across media, manufacturing, and agriculture, considered Bendor Farm in Thika one of his most cherished ventures. Covering approximately 405 hectares, the farm stands as a testament to Kirubi’s vision for sustainable and large-scale agricultural development.

A central feature of the farm is Lake Kirubi, a 6-hectare man-made lake that was a decisive factor in Kirubi’s purchase of the land. In a 2014 tour, he described the lake as a reliable and vital water source that remained full year-round and occasionally even hosted hippos. The lake not only supported the farm’s irrigation needs but was also part of Kirubi’s broader ambition to transform it into a recreational site for fishing and water sports. “Water is life,” he said, underscoring the lake’s role in the farm’s success.

Initially focused on coffee cultivation, Kirubi shifted away from the crop due to persistently low market prices. He transitioned into more viable options, establishing what he claimed to be the country’s largest banana plantation, spanning roughly 100 to 120 hectares. The remaining land was planted with avocados intended for export, though the trees had not yet matured during his lifetime.

Kirubi emphasized collaborative management on the farm, often consulting both his farm manager and experienced workers. Due to the scale of the property, transportation across the farm required either horses or vehicles to move along a network of dirt roads that connected various sections.

Bendor Farm reflects Kirubi’s strategic approach to agriculture—prioritizing water security, crop diversification, and long-term investment. His focus on avocados and bananas, both high-demand crops with strong export potential, aligned with broader trends in global food markets.

More than just a commercial enterprise, Bendor Farm represented Kirubi’s belief in agriculture as a driver of economic development and rural employment. Through infrastructure such as irrigation and forward-looking crop choices, the farm aimed to serve as a model for modern agribusiness in Kenya.