Murang’a woman makes a living from tree nursery business

Murang’a, Thursday, June, 29, 2023

by Anita Omwenga/Patience Kanini

The beauty of nature is among the highlights of the highlands in Kenya. Narrowing down to Murang’a County, you will observe lots of tree nurseries along the road. Founded in 2002 by Grace Wanjiku, Mama Sammy tree nursery, which is located in Mukuyu, has blossomed into a thriving sanctuary of trees of all species.

With an entrepreneurial spark and deep passion for nature, famously known as Mama Sammy, was motivated by a compelling business idea that led her to embark on the nursery plantation journey.

From delicate seedlings to flourishing trees, the nursery’s diverse collection showcases nature’s extraordinary diversity while aiming to replenish our planet’s green color. The nursery consists of a variety of seedlings such as, macadamia, blue gum, grevillea, oranges, avocado, pawpaw, apple, and jacaranda with grevillea and avocado attracting the highest market.

Wanjiku’s nursery consists of trees that are very important to human lives, some of them provide food like avocado, apples, oranges, and pawpaw which bear fruits. Other trees provide medication.

The nursery is strategically located, just along a river, which plays a big role in times of drought.

“Prolonged drought is really not an issue to us. This stream right here provides us with sufficient water to sustain our trees,” says Wanjiku.

The location also favors the sales, as it is visible to the primary customers who are mostly users of the adjacent road. In addition, it is highly advantageous compared to those who sell from their local homes.

Mama Sammy is not registered with the county government so she relies solely on the success of her nursery to meet her daily needs. Through this independent venture Wanjiku embodies the spirit of resilience, knowing that every seed nurtured and tree cultivated contributes not only to his livelihood but also the vitality of the surrounding community.

On the other hand, Mama Sammy only depends on the temporary river water which becomes a challenge during the long dry season. She is forced to purchase water for the seedlings, which is quite expensive. Competition is also a challenge to her business as many people sell their trees along the roads while others are at their homesteads.

“My goal is not only to grow and sell trees but to instill a sense of environmental consciousness within our county,” explains Wanjiku. “I believe that every tree I cultivate plays a vital role in combating climate change, conserving biodiversity, and enhancing the overall quality of life for future generations,”

Mama Sammy nursery’s dedication to cultivating a sustainable future through tree plantation is an inspiration for businesses and individuals alike. 

Courtesy ; K. N. A