Mount Kenya University (MKU) students, Esbon Ogetto and Bettinah Maruti have developed a groundbreaking technology that transforms pineapple waste into a carbon-negative fertiliser, currently awaiting patent approval. Their startup, NanaHeal Enterprises, was recognized with a US$3,800 award in the AYuTe Africa Challenge, a Heifer International initiative that fosters youth-led agritech innovations across Africa.
Ogetto revealed that their product, dubbed Pine Organic, has been tested by farmers, resulting in up to a 40% increase in crop yield. The technology captures atmospheric CO2, redirecting it into the soil, thus enhancing plant growth. A pilot program conducted in April 2023 across diverse Kenyan farms demonstrated Pine Organic's efficacy on various crops, outperforming conventional synthetic fertilizers in terms of leaf size, color, and length.
Maruti highlighted the environmental benefits of their innovation, from reducing greenhouse gas emissions to minimizing waste pollution. Utilizing pineapple waste not only addresses the issue of landfill overflow but also contributes to a cleaner environment, potentially reducing the spread of diseases and pest infestations. NanaHeal aims to create a sustainable ecosystem where agricultural waste is converted into valuable organic fertilizer, positively impacting climate change.
In response to the challenges Kenyan farmers face regarding fertilizer affordability and quality, NanaHeal plans to offer their organic fertilizer at competitive prices, 15% lower than market rates. The initiative is also poised to create employment opportunities in waste collection, manufacturing, and distribution, indirectly boosting farm labor demand due to increased agricultural productivity.
Support from MKU has been pivotal, with Donatus Njoroge, head of innovation, intellectual property, and community engagement, expressing pride in the duo's achievements. NanaHeal benefits from the SKIES business incubation program, funded by the World Bank, which is designed to enhance its business model and scale its impact further.
Source: University World News