Kentaste, a Kenya SMEs, leverages IIA’s upscaling program to improve revenue generation through enhanced production capacity.

Kentaste, a Kenyan-based manufacturing enterprise located on the Southern Coast, had been processing coconut products for many years. However, despite working with over 500 small-holder farmers supplying coconuts, the company faced a  challenge in meeting market demand due to inadequate manufacturing capacity. Kentaste's General Manager, Joan Mutai, recognized the need for upscaling and joined Invest in Africa's SME upscaling program to explore opportunities for expanding the company. 

The upscaling program, implemented in partnership with GIZ Business Scouts for Development, enrolled 40 SMEs, including Kentaste, and involved capacity building and technical support within five modules: good manufacturing practices, new product development, transparency and traceability, access to finance, and market access. Joan was excited to attend the Anuga Food Tec trade fair in 2022, which was made possible through the program. Here, she witnessed cutting-edge manufacturing technology and identified the best machines to acquire for her company. 

As a result of the program, Kentaste acquired a new production line with three times the capacity of its previous production line. The company now processes 100,000 coconuts a day up from the 20,000 coconuts it processed previously. This improved production capacity has increased the revenue of the company and it can now comfortably achieve its business goals. The new production line has also created more jobs and experience for Kentaste employees. 

Buoyed by the success of the program, Joan attended the just-concluded BIOFACH 2023 trade fair. Here, she showcased Kentaste's products and had a chance to network with potential buyers. The event was eye-opening, and she returned to her company with new ideas and contacts. 

Joan attributes Kentaste's success to Invest in Africa's SME upscaling program. Through the program, the company has become a model for other manufacturing SMEs in Kenya, and she is proud of what they have achieved. 

The program not only provided technical and financial support but also connected the participants to the global and local network of partners, buyers, and financiers.