Can You Really Make Money Farming? Honest Lessons from Building an Agribusiness in Africa

Can you really build a profitable farming business in Africa? It's the question I get asked more than any other. In this solo episode of The Yield, I answer 11 of the questions farmers, entrepreneurs and aspiring agribusiness owners ask me most often—from profitability and finding buyers to exporting, market access and the future of African agriculture. Drawing on my experience building an export herb farm in Kenya, I share the lessons that have shaped our business, the mistakes we've made, and what I wish I'd known when we started. If you've ever wondered whether farming is worth it, this episode is for you. In this episode Can you really make money farming? Why revenue and profit are two very different things What nobody tells you about exporting fresh produce How we found our first international buyers The biggest myth about African agriculture What I'd do differently if I started with just US$5,000 The best—and worst—investments we've made Should young people go into farming? Why market access matters more than production Where I believe African agriculture is headed over the next decade I'd love to hear from you. Can you really make money farming? What's your experience? Leave a comment below. I read every one, and your insights often shape future episodes. I've also had a number of requests to create a practical Leaf and Loaf Masterclass covering everything we've learnt building our farm—from crop selection and greenhouse production to exports, certifications and finding buyers. We're still in the research phase, so I'd genuinely love your feedback. Would that be something you'd be interested in? If so, what would you most want me to cover? Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:30 Can you really make money farming? 05:30 What does a normal week look like? 08:30 What nobody tells you about exporting 12:00 The biggest myth about African agriculture 15:30 If I had US$5,000 to start an agribusiness today 19:30 Which African country excites me most? 23:00 The best—and worst—investments we've made 26:00 Should young people go into farming? 29:30 The future of African agriculture 33:00 The biggest lesson farming has taught me 36:00 How we found our first export buyers 41:30 Quick-fire round 45:00 A Leaf and Loaf Masterclass? About The Yield The Yield is a weekly podcast exploring the future of African agriculture through honest conversations with farmers, entrepreneurs, investors and industry leaders. Hosted by farmer and investor Zanele Hlatshwayo, each episode uncovers practical lessons, inspiring stories and real opportunities shaping Africa's food systems. Subscribe for new episodes every week. #AfricanAgriculture #Agribusiness #Farming #KenyaAgriculture #ExportFarming #TheYieldPodcast