(Nairobi) – Dr. Duke Gekonge, a food science expert, never imagined that his PhD research on guavas would lead to the creation of Pera Foods, a company that transforms underutilized plants into high-value products. Founded in 2019, Pera Foods specializes in processing fruits and plants that are often overlooked or even considered harmful, such as the invasive Mathenge plant, known scientifically as Prosopis juliflora.
Mathenge has become a problem, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions of Kenya, where it is blamed for damaging livestock by spreading quickly and crowding out native plants. In Baringo County, for example, local farmers estimate significant losses due to the plant. However, where others see a nuisance, Pera Foods sees an opportunity.
Dr. Gekonge’s journey to turning Mathenge into a resource began when he teamed up with Dr. Oscar Koech, a land scientist with years of experience in dryland areas. Dr. Koech has researched the plant for over a decade, focusing on its potential as animal feed during drought periods. He explains that the pods of the Mathenge plant are rich in protein and sugars, making them a valuable food source for both animals and humans.
“While the thorns of Mathenge are dangerous, its pods contain essential nutrients,” says Dr. Koech. In places like Mexico and South America, where the plant is native, the pods have been used for centuries as food for humans.
The collaboration between Dr. Gekonge and Dr. Koech led to the development of Pera Foods’ innovative approach to turning the Mathenge plant into a high-value product. Dr. Gekonge, using his expertise in food science, began experimenting with the pods of Mathenge to create edible products suitable for human consumption.
Today, Pera Foods has developed a range of products, including bread, cakes, and even wine made from Mathenge. “Pera Foods produces snacks and beverages from Mathenge and other underutilized fruits,” says Dr. Gekonge.
Since officially launching in 2022, the company has expanded its product line to include items that address health concerns like diabetes and cancer. “The products we make are already on the market, and we’re processing nearly 25 items,” Dr. Gekonge told Akilimali during an interview at his company’s office at the University of Nairobi’s Kabete campus.
To promote these products, Pera Foods uses digital platforms and social media to increase visibility and engage customers.
What makes Pera Foods stand out is its ability to turn Mathenge, a plant that is often viewed as a nuisance, into a resource with economic potential. According to Rufas Gachunga, a food science and nutrition expert at the University of Nairobi, “Instead of cutting down and destroying Mathenge trees, we are giving them value. We are turning a pest into a resource.”
The process of creating products from Mathenge involves grinding its pods into flour, which is then mixed with other ingredients like sweet potatoes and wheat flour to create snacks high in protein and beneficial nutrients.
“Mathenge flour is rich in protein, antioxidants, and vital nutrients. We reduce the sugar content in our products by using sweet potatoes and wheat, which also add nutritional value,” explains Gachunga.
In the market, the products are priced competitively, with a 400-gram loaf of bread costing KSh 60, and a pack of six cakes selling for KSh 65. A 750ml bottle of Mathenge wine is priced at KSh 1,500.
In addition to online platforms, Pera Foods also sells its products in hospitals like the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). “I sell the wine directly to customers who are recommended our products,” says Dr. Gekonge.
The company has also expanded its reach internationally, exporting small consignments to the United States, Europe, and Asia.
Dr. Gekonge’s journey, however, did not begin with Mathenge. He initially focused on creating juices and medicinal products from underutilized fruits. Although starting Pera Foods was not easy, he reveals that the venture required an initial investment of KSh 100,000. Now, he estimates the business is worth millions in potential.
Products and Pricing from Pera Foods
| Product | Description | Price (KSh) |
|---|---|---|
| Mathenge bread | 400g loaf made from Mathenge flour and other ingredients | 60 |
| Mathenge cakes | Pack of six cakes made from Mathenge flour | 65 |
| Mathenge wine | 750ml bottle of wine made from Mathenge plant | 1,500 |