Koppert Kenya celebrates 10th anniversary
“to be the most preferred partner in developing and marketing pollination systems and integrated pest management for protected and high-value crops, by being a reliable provider of innovative, effective and top-quality solutions”.
Inaugural management meeting in November 2006
We set off to understand our clients’ needs in order to better meet them. Although Koppert was a late entrant into this market, growers gradually adopted our innovative systems and products. Today, Koppert is the preferred supplier of biological crop protection solutions in the East Africa region! As we celebrate 10 years of Koppert Kenya’s existence, join us for a brief tour of the company’s history.
From humble beginning
The world has changed a lot in the past 10 years. In 2006 when we first started, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) was a relatively unknown concept in some segments of the local market. Many growers were hesitant to venture into IPM due to the perceived complications associated with such a system. Under these circumstances, by sheer tenacity of purpose and a firm belief in the quality of Koppert products, Charles Macharia (general manager, Koppert Kenya), started the journey. “It was quite demanding, but I knew it was a humble beginning for greater things to come,” he reported.
From the start, Koppert Kenya paid great attention to meeting customer needs through a flexible approach to IPM which growers had not experienced before. For instance, training for growers’ staff was done free of charge for growers who adopted Koppert programs on their farms.
Building the system
In early 2007, the first products were registered as per statutory requirements. These were Spical (Amblyseius californicus) and Spidex (Phytoseiulus persimilis). With the two products now commercially available, we launched a two-pronged spider mite IPM program. A few months later, another product – Swirski-Mite was successfully registered for the effective control of thrips and whitefly. Since then, the product range has grown to include numerous microbial, microbial, associated products, botanicals and seed-dressing products.
Meanwhile, we have built a strong team of highly qualified technical staff and certified trainers. These support clients train their staff on all integrated crop management (ICM) issues including crop monitoring, product application, and resilient growing. This has paid off in the form of trust and a strong reputation within the horticulture industry.
A sustainable system
From the start, our core values- reliability, quality and innovation- helped set us apart. As the world changes and greater crop production challenges lie ahead, we will strive to lead our markets towards a sustainable future. With our diverse range of natural, safe products, in partnership with nature, we will continue to make agriculture healthier, safer, and more productive in the years ahead. All in all, we couldn’t be more proud of what we have accomplished and wish to especially thank all our clients and partners for their continued support.
For more information:
Koppert Kenya
+254 20 44537804
info@koppert.co.ke
www.koppert.co.ke