Kentaste — coconutsSecuring the future of smallholder producers in Kenya

Responsible coconuts to benefit Kenyan producers

The Kwale region, where Kentaste (formerly known as Coconut Holdings Limited) operates, is one of the poorest rural areas in Kenya. Smallholder coconut farmers struggle to earn an adequate income, particularly because climate change is already having an impact on their crops. What’s more, they must negotiate with intermediaries who only buy their coconuts sporadically. They are often forced to sell their coconuts at a discounted price, thereby perpetuating the cycle of poverty.

However, Kentaste is committed to developing long-term relationships with its smallholder producers. This is a source of stability for producers in a region where the land is not very fertile and alternatives to coconuts are rare.
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A comprehensive approach to support growers

The Kwale region, where Kentaste (formerly known as Coconut Holdings Limited) operates, is one of the poorest rural areas in Kenya. Smallholder coconut farmers struggle to earn an adequate income, particularly because climate change is already having an impact on their crops. What’s more, they must negotiate with intermediaries who only buy their coconuts sporadically. They are often forced to sell their coconuts at a discounted price, thereby perpetuating the cycle of poverty.

However, Kentaste is committed to developing long-term relationships with its smallholder producers. This is a source of stability for producers in a region where the land is not very fertile and alternatives to coconuts are rare.

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Alterfin’s financing

Alterfin believed in Kentaste’s social mission and was the first to provide the organization with a loan in 2017:

“Alterfin was the first international lender to have faith in us. It’s always difficult for us to obtain financing, but at the time, we couldn’t access any other credible alternative. ”

Alterfin’s presence has also enabled Kentaste to boost its visibility and improve its credibility in the eyes of other international lenders, all while expanding its activity. In 2017, Kentaste worked with just 700 producers. Today, more than 3,200 coconut producers have the chance to build a better future.

Listening to producers to confirm our impact

Alterfin interviewed Kentaste's management and 310 coconut producers in Kwale to find out more about Kentaste's impact on coconut producers on the Kenyan coast and Alterfin’s role as a social investor. Want to know all about it? Read the case study in our annual report: