Agriculture is integral in today’s world, realizing food security and economic prosperity in local and global markets. Consequently, agrochemicals have become increasingly crucial. One company that has made significant strides in this field is OSHO Chemicals.
A Kenyan-based manufacturer and distributor of agrochemical products that has grown into a regional powerhouse with over 30 years of experience, OSHO Chemicals has solidified its place in the agricultural sector, focusing on innovative solutions for farmers across Africa.
OSHO Chemicals has also enhanced its presence in the Agriculture Sector through sponsoring Agricultural expos and fairs such as Naivasha Horticultural Fair (NHFAIR) and AGITECH.
From Humble Beginnings to a Regional Powerhouse
Since its inception in 1993 with just three employees, OSHO Chemicals has morphed into a corporation directly employing over 500 people, with branches in Tanzania, Uganda, Malawi, and Zambia, owing to its innovative practices in the agrochemical space.
“We started with a vision to support the small-scale farmer. Today, we provide products for a wide range of customers, from horticultural to cereal growers, flower farmers, and more. Our products cover everything from insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides, to foliar feeds,” says Mary Wairimu, a marketing expert at OSHO Chemicals.
The company’s focus on small-scale farmers from the beginning gave it an edge, especially in Kenya’s agricultural market. OSHO realized early on that most competitors focused on large-scale farming, leaving the small-scale farmers—those with quarter or half-acre plots underserved. This foresight allowed OSHO to dominate the small-scale farming market while expanding into large-scale farming as well.
Wide Product Range
OSHO serves virtually all types of farmers: from horticultural crops to cereals and ornamentals. The company locally produces most of its products and sources materials both locally and internationally. This wide variety of products ensures that OSHO is well-positioned to support the needs of farmers with different crops and challenges.
Some of the products by OSHO available in the market include; Accent, Agrofeed, Easy Grow fruit and Fruit, Password WDG, Control 70 WDG, Companion 75 WP, Oshothane, Top Rank among others.
Sustainability at the Forefront
Environmental sustainability is increasingly becoming a concern in farming, especially for companies in the agrochemical sector. OSHO Chemicals has made considerable efforts to incorporate sustainable practices into its production processes.
“We have invested in green energy, using solar power for much of our production. On the ground, we engage in constant farmer training to ensure safe and environmentally friendly product usage. We partner with companies to properly dispose of used chemical containers, ensuring that environmental harm is minimized,” highlights Wairimu.
Additionally, OSHO works closely with farmers to educate them on sustainable agricultural practices, emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety guidelines and minimizing chemical overuse. This ensures that OSHO’s products are used responsibly, reducing environmental degradation, including soil leaching and contamination of water sources.
Exploring New Frontiers in Technology
OSHO Chemicals recognizes the transformative role technology plays in modern agriculture, hence its focus on innovative practices. It has introduced battery-operated pumps to replace traditional manual pumps, reducing the physical burden on farmers and increasing efficiency in pesticide application.
OSHO has also embraced digital technology, making use of social media platforms and even a WhatsApp bot to stay connected with farmers. Through these digital platforms, farmers can access information about OSHO’s products, locate distributors, and get tailored advice on the best solutions for their crops ensuring farmers are well-equipped to handle their challenges.
Looking to the Future
In the face of increasing scrutiny on chemical-based agriculture, OSHO is adapting by investing in biological products. These products are more environmentally friendly and meet the growing demand from consumers for healthier, safer farming solutions.
“There is growing awareness among farmers about the potential long-term effects of chemicals. More farmers are choosing biological products that are better for their crops and the environment,” explains Wairimu.
Although OSHO’s operations currently focus on Africa, the company continues to explore new avenues for growth. Expanding its footprint into other African countries, OSHO aims to support even more farmers in different climates and regions.