Charles Odira’s childhood passion for sugarcane has evolved into a juice-making business that pays him five times as much as selling the cane and has garnered him national fame.
Sugarcane business is one of the most profitable businesses in Kisumu. The business is booming-no doubt-but many Kenyans always despise those engaging in this business.
Like Father, Like Son
Odira’s father, who utilized cane juice to manufacture jaggery known as Sukari Nguru, sparked his interest in all things sugarcane produces.
Odira began her career after graduating from high school and has never looked back.
He started off selling sugarcane, but a trip to the Mombasa International Trade Fair changed everything. He came across an old buddy from the Kenya Sugar Research Foundation, who was demonstrating sugar crashing equipment. He decided to save money and purchase the machine.
Charles began turning peanuts into butter and flour. He also increased the performance of machines by fabricating them. As the business grew, he decided to try his hand at extracting sugarcane juice.
“In Kisumu, it’s usually hot, and people inevitably cool off with a cold drink.” “Many people prefer sugarcane juice over other drinks,” he explained.
Profits
Mr Odira charges KES50 for a cup of juice. Depending on the demands of the customer, he also adds ginger and lime to the juice to boost its flavour and therapeutic capabilities.
He charges KES10 for a 250ml sachet of juice, making it one of the most cost-effective nutritious beverages on the market.
“Some goods are not consumed because people are ignorant of their health advantages. “I’m hoping this will be a profitable business line for me,” he stated.
Because of the availability of sugarcane in the area, the juice in Kisumu is cheaper than in other Kenyan towns. A one-metre piece of sugarcane may provide up to four litres of juice, which can be chilled and does not require any additions.
Value-Addition
After harvesting, he washes and peels the cane before crushing and spinning it to extract the juice, which is then blended with a little water and flavourings.
A half-metre cane can provide up to two litres of raw cane juice, which may be stored in the refrigerator like other juices. Apart from the flavours, cane juice requires no other ingredients.
The beverage is nutrient-dense and high in minerals like calcium and iron. Sugarcane is commonly chewed in Kisumu as a sweet alternative to alleviate thirst.
According to a study conducted by scientist Joaquim Mauricio Duarte on the health advantages of sugar, a natural component contained in sugarcane juice has been demonstrated to inhibit the development of human cancer cells.
Public Sensitization
Mr Odira stated that he attends numerous trade shows as a result of collaborations with the Ministry of Agriculture and non-governmental organizations dedicated to teaching the public about the benefits of sugarcane juice.
For more information: https://www.businessdailyafrica.com/bd/corporate/enterprise/artisan-enjoys-healthy-income-from-sugarcane-juice-2044402
