Pumpkin farming in Kenya is steadily evolving from a small backyard activity into a commercial enterprise, with farmers increasingly exploring processing opportunities to maximize returns.
Although the crop remains popular due to its adaptability and high yields, many growers continue to face price fluctuations caused by seasonal oversupply. During peak harvest periods, especially in May and December, farm gate prices often fall to between KSh 15 and KSh 25 per kilogram, limiting profits and in some cases failing to cover production costs.
Agricultural stakeholders say the solution lies not in reducing production, but in value addition through processing pumpkins into products that can be stored longer and sold throughout the year.
In 2026, demand for pumpkin flour has risen significantly as more health-conscious consumers embrace it for porridge, baking, and other nutritious foods. Retail prices for pumpkin flour have reached about KSh 500 per kilogram in supermarkets and health stores, offering farmers substantially higher returns than selling raw pumpkins.
Pumpkin seeds are also becoming a valuable by-product. They can be roasted and packaged as snacks or processed into oil through cold pressing. Pumpkin seed oil currently fetches between KSh 800 and KSh 1,200 per litre, creating another income stream for farmers willing to invest in processing.
Experts note that farmers who adopt value addition strategies stand to earn far more than those who depend solely on fresh produce sales.
With proper management, pumpkin farming can yield up to 15 tonnes per acre, making it an attractive option for growers seeking both food security and income generation.
Farmers are being encouraged to focus on improved varieties, proper land preparation, correct spacing, soil fertility management, pest control, and post-harvest handling to increase output and quality.
Proper curing and storage methods can allow pumpkins to remain marketable for up to six months, helping farmers avoid distress sales during glut seasons.
As Kenya’s demand for healthy and processed food products continues to rise, pumpkin farming is increasingly being viewed as a promising agribusiness with strong potential for profitability through innovation and value addition.
By: Samuel Mwangi
