In the heart of Thika, where lush landscapes meet unyielding determination, lives a remarkable man, Joseph Muiruri, whose spirit shines brighter than the sun-drenched fields he nurtures.
After a life-altering accident five years ago that left him with a disability, he refused to let challenges define him.
Instead, he turned adversity into opportunity, cultivating a thriving business in tree seedlings that not only beautifies the environment but also inspires the community.
With each seedling he plants, Muiruri sows hope and resilience, proving that passion and perseverance can grow against all odds.
Determined to carve his own path, Muiruri started small, cultivating a few seedlings. With each sprout that broke through the soil, his confidence grew.
“I realised that nurturing plants was not just a job; it was my calling,” he says.
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
When we meet Muiruri, he is busy in his farm, engaging his workers.
What began as a modest venture gradually transformed into a flourishing business.
Muiruri says he expanded his operations, eventually securing farms across Embu, Muranga, Mombasa and parts of Ukambani.
“In Mombasa, I have 40 acres of land, where I have planted coconut and cashewnuts, and in total I have eight nurseries,” he says.
His passion for tree seedlings found a solid foundation, and he soon began selling to local nurseries, schools and community projects.
“Every seedling I sell represents a future tree,” Muiruri says.
“Trees provide shade, clean air and hope for future generations.”
His vision extended beyond mere sales; he aspired to contribute to environmental conservation.
As his reputation grew, so did his workforce. Today, Muiruri has more than 30 employees.
By offering training and stable employment, he has fostered a community of resilience.
“It’s about building a family,” he says, a warm smile spreading across his face.
“We support each other, both on and off the farm.”
With climate change at the forefront of global concerns, Muiruri’s work not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also highlights the importance of self-drive for persons with disabilities.
“You also have to be self driven because if you are not, then you can’t move,” he says.
His success story is a testament to resilience and an inspiration to others facing similar challenges.
Muiruri has not just built a business, he has cultivated a community, proving that with determination, even the deepest roots can thrive against the toughest conditions.
POWER OF PARTNERSHIPS
One significant factor in Muiruri's success is his partnership with KCB Bank.
The bank recognised his potential early on and offered support in marketing his seedlings.
This collaboration has been crucial in expanding his reach beyond local markets.
Muiruri says KCB not only assists with promotions but also buys seedlings, providing him with the financial stability needed to grow his business.
“They believed in me,” he says. “Their support has allowed me to dream bigger.”
He says KCB buys the seedlings and also distributes them to different schools across the year to support tree-planting initiatives.
With KCB's backing, Muiruri has invested in advanced farming techniques and sustainable practices, ensuring his operations remain environmentally friendly.
Muiruri’s influence stretches beyond the business realm.
He is also an advocate for environmental education, frequently visiting schools to teach children about the importance of trees and the role they play in the ecosystem.
“The younger generation is our future,” he says.
“If we can instil a love for nature in them, we are ensuring a healthier planet.”
At his Thika farm, he has planted the Hash avocados. He says he sources the best avocado trees from Kisii and collaborates closely with the agriculture ministry to promote sustainable farming practices.
His partnership with institutions like KCB ensures there is a ready market for his products.
“If you have the right mindset, physical disability is just a hurdle, not a barrier,” he says.
Through projects like that of Muiruri, KCB has continued to reaffirm its commitment to the economic inclusion of PWDs.
According to KCB, 10 per cent of its suppliers are persons with disabilities. In its recently published Sustainability Report for 2023, KCB says 202 of its branches have been involved in tree planting, and more than 314,000 seedlings planted in partnership with 1,423 schools.
This underscores the bank’s commitment to environmental stewardship in support of the sustainable development goals.
Muiruri says his passion for climate change solutions resonates with the current government’s agenda, especially President William Ruto’s commitment to combating environmental challenges by planting 15 billion trees by 2031.
Through his projects, he not only cultivates crops but also nurtures the community, providing daily employment for locals.
Muiruri says workers earn about Sh600 a day, allowing them to support their families and improve their lives.
CHALLENGES
The journey has not been without its challenges. Muiruri has faced skepticism and doubt, often having to prove himself in a competitive market.
“People see a disability and underestimate you,” he says.
“But I’ve learned to use that as motivation. I want to show them what’s possible.”
Muiruri also says he is lucky that no thieves invade his farm.
“This is a secure place. No one can steal my seedlings because sometimes, I even give my neighbours seedlings for free,” he says.
As Muiruri stands amidst his thriving farms, surrounded by employees who have become like family, he reflects on the impact he has made.
“I want to create a legacy,” he says. “A legacy of hope and possibility,” he says.
His story resonates deeply within the community, inspiring many, especially those with disabilities.
Muiruri often speaks at local forums and events, sharing his experiences and encouraging others to pursue their passions.
“It’s not about what you can’t do; it’s about what you can achieve,” he says.
According to the 2019 Census, 2.2 per cent (0.9 million people) of Kenyans live with some form of disability.
The census results indicate that 1.9 per cent of men have a disability compared with 2.5 per cent of women.
FUTURE IS GREEN
Looking ahead, Muiruri envisions expanding his operations even further.
He dreams of establishing a training centre for aspiring farmers, focusing on sustainable practices and environmental conservation.
Muiruri also says he would like to work with more schools to distribute the seedlings.
“If we can empower others, we can create a ripple effect,” he says.
With plans to integrate technology into his farming practices, he is committed to staying at the forefront of agricultural innovation.
“The world is changing, and we must change with it,” he says.
His determination to embrace modern methods while preserving traditional values sets him apart in the farming community.
Muiruri’s journey from a small backyard seedling operation to a thriving business with more than 30 employees is a testament to the power of resilience, passion and community.
In a world often clouded by negativity, his story shines brightly, illuminating the path for others to follow.
As he continues to nurture not only seedlings but also the spirit of those around him, he embodies the belief that dreams can take root in even the most challenging circumstances.
His life serves as a powerful reminder that with determination and support, anything is possible. Through his unwavering spirit, he is not just planting trees; he is sowing seeds of hope for generations to come.
As a person with disability, Muiruri stands as a beacon of hope and determination, proving that limitations do not define one’s potential.