Introduction
How does it feel to have the same damn thing in your diet over and over? And how about when it’s the only thing you can afford? Well, this’ what I had to put up with the entire period of my childhood growing up in the village.
I am Hudson Shiraku, a 32 year old young man from western Kenya whose nickname growing up was Mabuni. Mabuoni in my native dialect translates to sweet potatoes and I earned this name because we eat boiled sweet potatoes every day. We eat them boiled for breakfast, eat them boiled for lunch and eat them boiled for supper. As kids; we eat them raw or roasted playing in the fields. My friends taunted me that my intestines would turn as yellow as sweet potatoes. My primary school classmates avoided sitting next to me because I emitted pungent fumes characteristic to bad stomach from eating potatoes. Very humiliating.
I am have now schooled and grown to be an environmentalist, a blogger and a writer currently working at the Biovision Africa Trust as a programme assistant. The nickname ‘Mabuoni’ has since disappeared.
Someone once said, there are clouds so that we can enjoy sunshine. Can you imagine what it would have been like if we had sunshine throughout without clouds? We would have taken it for granted and we wouldn’t have enjoyed it. I see my challenges as a kid – eating potatoes everyday and being humiliated in school, as a business opportunity and a chance to help the community. The bad fumes are associated with boiled potatoes only so I want to eliminate the problem by providing alternatives to boiled potatoes.
I want to make it possible for people to make baked goods, such as breads, cookies, muffins, pancakes, and doughnuts, and thickener for sauces and gravies from sweet potatoes. With these; no fart fumes and there will be a variety of sweet potato products to grace our tables at meal times. I want to start making sweet potato flour.
The Business Idea
I want to establish a sweet potato grinding mill. Sweet potato flour making process is fairly simple once you have the hammer mill. After harvesting potatoes or buying them from farmers as will be my case: they need to be cleaned and trimmed in order to remove soil and other foreign material from the surface. They then need to be thoroughly washed and brushed as the quality of flour depends on how the washing has been conducted. The brushing is also a relevant step because it reinforces the removal of the soil and an important portion of the skin, especially when red skin colored sweet potato roots are being processed into flour.
To increase their surface area for faster drying, they are then sliced. Drying can be either traditional solar drying, technical solar drying or drying using sophisticated industrial equipment. I will adopt traditional solar drying. Dried potato slices can then be ground using the hammer mill, packed and sealed immediately to avoid re-hydration and insect infestation. Materials with little permeability to water vapor, such as cellophane, polyethylene or polypropylene should be used. I will use polythene bags to package mine.
Why Sweet Potatoes for Health and Wealth
Women will get ready market for their sweet potatoes: By opening this venture, our women who are often exploited by middlemen will get premium prices for their produce. I will buy their Sweet potatoes at higher price than their gate prices. The venture will also open up other businesses for the community members as besides hiring some, they will open up eateries where they will serve sweet potato juice, cakes and other products. Sweet potatoes are among the healthiest foods known, a fact that is increasingly getting recognized the world over. People are becoming more conscious of what they eat and my community members stand to gain from these health benefits.
Besides the economic gains that I will accrue as the entrepreneur, I am motivated by my desire to help my community. Where I come from sweet potatoes are in the league of the so-called “orphan crops”, alongside cassava and millet. Many who can afford have abandoned these crops because they are considered the poor man’s food. I want to change this mentality by helping people make money and keep healthy by eating and trading in value added sweet potato products.
My motivation is also partly due to the challenges I went through as a kid; eating boiled sweet potatoes everyday because it’s the only thing we could afford and also we didn’t know about the options of baking bread, cookies, crisps, chips, jam, juice, chapati and mandazi. Neither did we know about the health benefits. Its flour is high in fiber and contains a higher level of carbohydrates and lower level of protein than common wheat flour. It is more healthier and is commonly used in gluten free cooking and baking. I am convicted by all these reasons to venture into this business.
Execution Strategy
I am already conducting my research about the venture and I believe this is a very vital step. I already know where and how to buy the hummer mill and where to get my raw materials (sweet potatoes). My first step will be ordering for one or buying one locally.
I will then rent two rooms at the market place where one shall be the miller and the other shall be a warehouse cum shop. I will also have my business registered legally. To create a wide customer base, I am already preaching and will continue to preach the gospel of the health benefits of sweet potatoes as opposed to wheat.
Budget
This US$5000 grant is all I need to fly into the world of self employment and economic empowerment.
The hammer mill will cost me about US$2000 and buying can be done immediately fund come in.
Rent for the rooms will cost US$600 for six months to be paid up front before starting,
Registration of my company will cost US$200 it takes two weeks but can be done as the business runs
Branding attractive packaging bags will cost US$300 and it’s a week long activity
Labor (two people) will cost me US$200 per month
The rest shall be invested in buying raw materials from the women farmers on need be basis and voila!! I’ll be en route to success. Success is equal to profits made where (profit = revenue – expenses)
Blogpost and picture submitted by Hudson Shiraku (Kenya) – hudson_wereh[at]hotmail.com
The content, structure and grammar is at the discretion of the author only.
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Great as it reflects social.entrepreneurship.for.marginalised women in rural.areas. I would.like to franchise when the start up takes up. Contact me.at ruthavankwah@gmail.com
That’s a brilliant idea gentleman. You have to put more effort in educating people in your rural area especially those who grows sweet potatoes all these benefits coz I understand majority can’t access the information from the internet. Keep it up
Good. Advice taken
That’s I interesting…. I would really love to taste that.
I promise, its very delicious and nutritious – forget the Mabuoni
Lumity. This’ going to be a reality soon.
A very viable idea.This will uplift the community in areas of security as preservation of sweet potatoes is tricky,it will encourage many to grow as their will be a ready market for the produce thus eradicating poverty.
Thanks Alfred. Once I get moving in Western Kenya we’ll discuss how to collaborate.
great stuff this will be, probably i will be the first customer at your premise. we need more enterpreneurs in the agricultural economy to utilize local resourses into wealth creation. i like the value addition part, the nutrient needs for children,attitude change that potatoes are for the poor and creating employment for youths in rural areas. This is great stuff we need more of such creative minds.
Thanks Gerry
Very creative – this will change the mentality we have on sweet potatoes. A poor man’s food.
Reblogged this on Sustainable Development.
Hey Mr. Wereh. We work with farmers in Western Kenya and this sounds like something we could exploit together with them
Yes. Very interest to work together Biovision.
Reblogged this on Sustainable Development.
Hey boss, this is an interesting idea and I bet it has not been fully exploited here. Good thinking.
It will be fully exploited once the funding is granted hopefully. Thank you.
nice idea will enhance food sustainability in the region
Thank you Vivian.
very nice idea what a way to maintain food sustainability
The idea of a sweet potato mill makes a lot of sense because of the value addition component that will contribute to higher returns for farmers in the cited area. All the best!
Thanks for the encouragement John.
Great idea. The diet diversification will make the sweet potato more acceptable. The health aspect is great too as it will lead to a healthier diet due to the high nutritional value of the sweet potato. This will contribute to nutrition security which is just as important as food security.
Thanks Pauline. I would appreciate if I can be allowed to work with your groups who produce potatoes.
Go ahead unreservedly.
Thanks.
Sweet potatoes are very healthy and I believe you will find clients. I only see this flour in big supermarkets. Bon courage hudson
I hope to make the flour available in all stores not just the big supermarkets.
This sounds like a really good idea. I do know that sweet potatoes are really healthy. It is also a great idea to diversify the diet. Would the same people who grow the sweet potatoes also buy the flour, or would that be more expensive for them?
Hi Mag, Thanks for your comment and concern. The community will be my number one client. I will therefore make my products affordable to them.
That is just a smart idea. I wonder how sweet potato porridge or ugali would taste…… anything that works for my skin goes. Am in!!!
Muriira. This actually a beauty product. Sweet potato products have amazing effects on the skin
You are right Hudson. Sweetp potatoes are considered a poor man’s food. This project will change this perception.
I sure hope it does. Thank you Belinda.
Where can one buy the hammer mill locally?
I know some shops in Nairobi and also it can be bought online: alibaba.com
Nice idea,keep it work. this will really improve the living standards of our local farmers,especially those who depend on sweet potatoe.
Thank you Mourice thats the aim.
Sweet potatoes are a great source of nutrients and I find them very tasty! In Europe, Sweet potatoes become more and more popular. They are even hyped for their nutrient density and healthy form of carbohydrates. I wish you all the best for your project!
Thanks Sibylle
Hi Hidson,
Do you have recipes on how to make these different sweet potato products? Especially the chapati.
Veronicah
Veronica, yes I do. I have then in hardcopy unfortunately. I will retype them and share.
The sweet potato mill is sure to be of great value to farmers by earning them the much needed income. Great idea!!!!
Thanks Okello. Hope we can work together with your radio programs to advertise my business.
Good idea to solve farmers problem on marketing . Farmers will support that brilliant idea.
Hi Anthony I sure hope they do.
Thats great Hudson. The so called orphaned crops are very nutritious. The idea will help poor resource farmers get ready market for their produces without being exploited by middle men. In Gilgil we are also promoting indigneous crops.
Good Nellie. I see an opportunity there – we can collaborate with your farmers too once am stable
Hey Hudson, this is a viable business opportunity. If you plan well you will go far.
Thanks Rober. I am really working towards that; planning well
its a good idea,i do like it and please go on networking that project in various parts of the country to improve our grassroot potato producers uplift their lives.
Yes i will see to it that I start social media campaign to promote it.
the idea is cool,waiting to taste potato juice,establish one in narok please,we produce potato and that way we will have market for our produce
Thanks and you’re welcome
Thats impressive for one to use their past for the good of the future..sweet potato is considered poor mans food but if properly exploited as you have suggested in the bussiness idea the mindset will definitely be changed all the best.
Hahaha – we get motivation from what we’ve gone through in life at some point.
great business idea it deserves to win. good work Hudson.
Thank you Lucia
finally sweet potato will be exploited..good business plan.
Thank you Fred I appreciate
very good story accompanied by a nice business plan all the best.
Thanks for the compliment.
this is the kind of business idea that should be given first priority hope you get it Hudson.
Thank you for the kind words Angel.
i like the business idea.. hope you get the grant sweet potatoes are such a healthy option.
Keeping my fingers crossed
all the best hudson thats a very beneficial business idea.
Agreed
This is very nice..many young people should follow suit and embrace their culture hence nice opportunities like this will arise,,hope you get the grant.
Thank Peter. Am hopeful too
haha very nice story totally inspiring together with the business plan..you deserve the grant all the best.
Thank you Alpha.
i already cant wait to see this in action you deserve it all the best,
Thank you Adel.
there will deff be ready market for this kind of business plan it deserves to be granted all the best Hudson.
Hopefully I get the support. Thanks
would love to see more ideas like this getting granted..very good job at it I applaude you..hope you get it
kudos for such a brilliant business idea..the story behind it was awesome hope you are granted.
Thank you Achibella.
nice way to financial freedom sweet potatoes are a good option, the grant is so going to be put to good use.
Yes I guarantee. Thank you.
this is such a good forum many young people should take part in this and get a chance to start their won business,,good luck Hudson way to go.
Thanks Denis. With your support, am confident I will take this
the idea sounds beneficial hope you get the grant all the best
thank you
This is very nice..i like the business idea all the best hudson the sky is the point of view
Yeah the sky is the point of view.
Really great!!!Finally issues on food security is met.
http://www.jamieoliver.com/news-and-features/features/why-sweet-potato-is-healthy/
Nice link there. Will definitely follow up when I get resources to pursue this project.
Hi Mr Wereh, There is a group in Western who’ve specialized in sweet potatoe farming and they sell their produce to middlemen who sell it in Nairobi. I here then complaining of poor prices – maybe working with them on value addition is something you’d like to pursue. You cant contact me via email macharianjoroge95@gmail.com
Thanks Macharia. I will connect with you on this. I need such groups for my raw materials.
Haha funny but true Hudson. Boiled sweet potatoes can mess your day and even that of your classmates. I really like your project and it’s going to save many. Our village women produce a lot of potatoes but they get very little from them. All the best
Please don’t laugh at me like that. I got sick from eating boiled potatoes. Hope to save others
In case someone wants this; share this with them
The idea is nice hope many people upcountry would learn of how they would exploit their indigenous plants. Take the challenge Hudson all the best though hope you win.
It would be nice to find a place where we can buy the sweetpotato flour. Its such a healthy option good work Hudson hope you get the grant.
Hudson the story is nice and the business idea sounds like you know exactly how to exploit your resources. your dresns are valid youndeserve to win.
Thank you Beth.
Good for a young person to not forget his roots and actually use what he had to prosper in future. The sweet potato business idea is nice hope it happens.
Once we embrace our roots positively we always see a greatfuture. Thank you.
The sweet potato will create market for the many farmers who plant the crop am totally in love with the business idea thank you and all the best.
Yes it surely will with your support thank you.
The business plan Hudson is very nice. you should get a heads up hope you get the grant very nice I wish you well.
Thank you Mark.
Am a sweet potato lover and very impressed with the idea. Would be impressed if i could find it in the supermarkets the sweet potato flour.
i guarantee you will find it.
Young people lost into town life need to follow your example. The whole business plan sounds like a success to me you deserve the grant.
Haha thank you Scott.
Hi Hudson, This is a very good business idea what a way to financial freedom thru doing something constructive and healthy. Sweet potatoes are very sweet and healthy i bet the byproducts will be just as nice.
I promise you they are just as nice or better.
Hope you would share this link to manyso that many young people would find a way to curb unemployment. The indigenous crops are yet to be exploited and they have much to offer all the best Hudson.
Yes I pray that the link will go viral.Thank you Kemunto.
The sweet potato i ate also while growing up. The idea will be very beneficial to both the farmers and the consumers. I wish you well Hudson.
Cant wait to taste chapatis made from that flour haha..hope you get the grant you already got market from me:).
Thank you Damarees.
The nation needs more people like this with ideas to food freedom through indigenous crops that have much to offer. You need to win that grant.
Yes thats among my many aims. Thanks Lisa
The business idea is quite impressive and very convincing good job your future is bright.
Thank you David
is agreat idea,please spread it to kisumu county as well,there are alot of sweet potato producers in the region
I definitely will take a walk there. Thanks for the heads up.
its owesome idea Hudson,sweet potato is available allover the country
what a story! i really admire your project Hudson
that will improve the market for the potato. its a good idea
Nice one,is a start and i hope it will reach all the rural communities
Best idea and story,hehehe, i like it.
its good one,farmer friendly project.
woow! i never imagined that sweet potato is that valuable. now i have a reason to grow potato so that i can sell to you. nice idea man
its a great project leaving me with no compliment. go own Hudson.
its cool, please introduce the project in Busia so that my family can benefit from it
so how can someone like this? am being told to have a portal,but the idea is perfect,keep it up.
Hi, this is a nice project. It is unique and it’s time has come since everybody is conscious of what they eat. All the best.
Hi Hudson, this is a fantastic opportunity. There are many farmers out there who stand to gain from this project. All the best.
its really creative. explore it buddy,its nice idea.
Its good and this will reduce the overreliance on maize and rice as the only diet
wonderful. its really an inspiring story
I really like it,but involve more researchers to be sure of high achievements
Thanks. I will surely invest in more research to stay at the top of the game.
very interesting story. your past was hard. With this peoject you will change the lives of other children facing what you went through.
Sure Kabs. And that gives me the motivation to follow it through.
Go on Were,to achieve that you never loose hope. nice project idea.
Thank you Joseph.
innovative. its really cool,it will be successful.
Thank you David.
Have to say that its anice idea, go go go
Hudson,with that one you will provide a local market for our produce
Sure Mwikwabe. That’s my intention.
Sure! You are right
The project is very nice considering how dearly i hold sweet potatoes to my heart good luck Hudson all the best.
Great you decided to use sweet potatoes as the other indigenous crops are overrated. Hope to see this project at work. Good plan
I would would like to see sweet potato products in stores. You should invest in establishing eating joints where people can have them.
This is a nice project and has the potential to change the lives of the rural poor farmers. Sweet potatoes are plenty yet lie unexploited.
Hi Hudson, This is a great idea. Hope it gets support so that we can work on it together.
Sweet potatoes are gaining popularity fast. Your project is therefore well timed and I hope you get the support you need to have it started
Hi, I came across this and believe your project has a great potential if well executed https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52MCxNeQjEg
Thanks Margaret. I will watch it and your encouragement is highly appreciated.
Mr Wereh, If you don’t mind we can work on something together – we have farmers in Eldoret who produce a lot of sweet potatoes and as you rightfully say, people only consume them boiled. You can help us with value addition.
This is a great project and I would you you to help us procure a hammer mill.
This is a nice idea and should be replicated to other sweeet potatoe producing areas. Sweet potatoe farmers go through the same problems
where do you plan to set up the store for the sweet potatoes?
Finally people will have an option to good and healthy breakfast thanks to the sweet potatoes. way to go Hudson.
The grant will be well exploited. Looks like you did your research well I wish you well Hudson.
Many farmers are set to benefit from this assuming they will follow suit amd exploit their indigenous crop. Hope you educate others on this good luck.
You should visit Ukambani sides and teach us more on this. Its a very viable project inspiring.
We already have farmer groups there. I will connect with you
Am wondering if the project has many challenges and how do you plan to tackle them? you have shine light on the positive side thats also great all the best
Just like any business, this will have challenges too but planning in advance and anticipating for such makes a whole difference.
Thank you for portraying sweet potato on such good virtues you totally deserve the grant Hudson very proud bro.
You got it right. I really need it to do all am saying here.
I like the idea that you are an environmentalist set out to do great with the orphaned crops. Kudos to the business plan
Yeah, my field has given me an advantageous position where i can see environmental opportunities
Thanks for sharing your story not many people would do that. The idea with the sweet potatoes crops is so wonderful a very healthy option indeed. Good luck
Thanks Paula.
I must agree you took me back to the days i would wake up to sweet potatoes in the morning also. I would still choose it today over anything given the different forms it will be portrayed. Good luck and all the best.
Hahaha – but am now providing more options of enjoying the sweet potato flavor.
I like how well structured your business idea is. The orphaned crops are a great way to be independent economically and also promote healthy living. Thumbs up.
Quite humbled Mwangi. Just trying to help
A friend of mine referred me to this post and i must admit am amazed the indigenous crops are a healthy way. All the best in your future business.
Thanks
All the so called orphaned crops have much to offer in this era where people are constantly suffering from lifestyle diseases. This is a good way to a healthy nation.
Yeah. And remember they are easy to farm
Hey Hudson nice idea Hope you get the grant to manoeuvre your idea.
Why are farmers exploited yet they are the ones who look after the well being of the the people in a nation. I salute this kind of proposals that go out of their way to ensure farmers needs come first thank you For this all the best.
This is a good way to give back to the community by creating employment opportunities through self empowerment and the grant hoping you will get.
I greed. I bank on the support of people like you
The idea is great hope yoy share such knowledge with your peers. Agriculture is a sure way to financial freedom hope you manage to get this best of luck Hudson.
Many many farmers would be glad to learn this kindly share with them more so if your project goes through. Sincerely wishing you all the best.
This is the kind of project that would inspire me to partake agriculture seriously haha. the idea is well thought out.
Haha Brianna you really should consider agriculture it is nice.
Please indulge farmers growing this orphaned crops am sure they would benefit a lot for such information Thank you and wish you well.
If i had a business idea like this years ago i would be way ahead. Such empowerment is very nice good job Hudson.
Sweet potato flour is very sweet i have tried it and am sure many people also would. It would be nice if it was well found on store shelves.
It feels so good to see young people with such business ideas remember tomorrow belongs to you this is very nice. using crops that are not much considered to show people its uses is very encouraging.
Very nice. would like to know where the store would be set up. I like sweet potato and would love to try different varieties
I like how someone’s past can help them do great things. Food security is a secure way for the country to grow.
Great idea Mr.Hudson!Best wishes..
Impressed that apart from your business other small businesses will also venture up a very great way to develop a community.
This is a great idea.Hope you get more support.
A viable idea man,atleast the mentality people have towards sweetpotatoes will change.
Food sustainability is goin’ to be enhanced.Great idea.
What a brilliant idea gentleman!?Put more effort in educating people about the ”orphan food”.
Ver interesting.Diet divesification will be enhanced as there will be food security,the most important factor to be considered.
The sweet potato project i saw it in Busia but only one farmer was doing it and wasn’t selling it to the locals. I wonder how it will be like if the people there knew the benefits of eating its flour and by products.
This project idea is set to bring the best out of farmers who complain exploitation on the market side. All the best
Many farmers will benefit from this idea and exploit their crops.Bravo Mr.Hudson..!!!
The fact that many people apart from the farmers would benefit from this sweet potato project sets the idea way ahead from the rest. The grant will be put to good use.
Hudson you deserve the grant you are a hardworking young man.
A great business idea.For sure,this is going to be a very healthy and delicious meal.Keep it up Boss.
It sounds great.Farmers will benefit from this mill for their needy income.
I hope this project reaches as many people as possible indigenous crops should not be looked down upon due to their health benefits and natural sweetness all the best Huddy.
Finally,the ‘orphan crop’ will be exploited.Good work gentleman.
Am from Kericho and am sure you would get market. Sweet potatos are highly loved.
That story behind it is awesome.Hope your business idea will be successful.
An awesome idea Hudson,many farmers will benefit from this project and that’s for sure if the idea becomes successful.All the best.
It is a good idea.Many farmers will benefit because there will be ready market of the sweetpotatoes.
I wish you would bring that project up here In Uganda. Alot of people would reap it’s benefits thank you.
Round of applause gentleman.This idea needs to be granted.
A brilliant idea.Atleast farmers from rural areas will get the chance to exploit their indeginous crops.
The value addition is the most important thing from the sweet potato project. Good luck at it Hudson.
Many young people willl get employment opportunities from this mill.All the best.
The idea that you will be getting your sweet potatoes from farmers at a good price is very nice. Many people should do same and motivate farmers.
Good business idea healthy crops should always be given 1st priority here locally. Totally supporting this project.
This brilliant idea has the potential to change the living standards of many rural farmers.Best wishes.
Where will you set up the mill? is it here In Nairobi or back there in the rural area? Am very keen on this project hope it goes through.
I’m looking forward to having a taste of the product.Good idea Mr.Hudson.You deserver it.
An interesting idea.I hope it will soon be exploited over the region.All the best.
Am happu to see that you have women empowerment at the back of your mind with the business idea through the market availability. Your project needs the grant honestly.
A great idea indeed.This project i bet it will produce healthy flour and the cost won’t be that high.
Fruitful project if it was to go thru everything well put out.
Hey Hudson, Do you already have an established market where you will get your supplies? Good project tho
Quite a viable idea, Kenyans are more health conscious and would rather do sweet potato products due to its health benefits of vitamins A, C, B1, B2, B6, P, K, Cu, Mn, Niacin, dietary fiber but to mention a few. I hope this reality will be realized as its also easier to snack on the value added products. All the best!
Hi Hud.Do you plan to do this project all by yourself or you will start something like an organisation or a company,
Its so encouraging to see the youth put effort in agriculture to raise their living standards. This proposal can go a long way please don’t stop from here continue onwards
Good project hope it flourishes all the luck you need brother:).
sweet potatoes can be turned to flour and used that i have never known. The info was very educative cant wait to try it out when you officially start out.
By saying that women will not get exploited by middlemen how will you get to them personally cause they suffer alot due to that situation.
Thank you for your advocacy in changing peoples mentality about the sweet potatoes. Communities need more people like you👏
Continue to preach the good news of of
the benefits of eating sweet potatoes don’t tire my friend.
Seems like someone did his research well all the best Hudson you deserve it.
This will definitely benefit many farmers according to your mode of acquiring the sweet potatoes good job.
After reading the sweet potato flour haha you make it sound so simple. You know exactly what you are doing. Keep up
Love the business plan its great things seem in order and well put.
The idea can only get better in time . Great things lie ahead with such mindsets being presented.
All i can say is sweet potatoes are such a natural way for food security. Together with the related crops. Hope you get the grant.
Sweet potatoes are very sweet I would love to eat crisps made from it . Dont forget to post the recipes.
Good luck Hudson you deserve it. You’ve come from far and you doing great. Looking forward to seeing you doing much better.
Good business plan love how you did your research very well executed.
I like how sweet potatoes are also used in gluten free products. Very nice indeed good project.
Must say you’ve somewhat turned my mentality on sweet potatoes am not a very big fan but I will certainly want to try them out.
Having figured out the value addition of the crop shows you certainly want the best off the project if granted you need to be awarded the grant😊
Very nice story had me laughing all through but the business idea is a 10. You deserve it.
Business opportunities will arise from this project very encouraging to know that. Hope the organisers of this contest consider that.
Very nice project hope it pushes through and becomes a success.
All the best my brother in your project you deserve it.
Hi Hudson am only here to wish you best of luck in your wonderful proposal all the best.
Thank you.
I agree that sweet potato will be a better option than wheat people need to recognise that. Good luck Hudson continue doing great.
Nice project hope it gets the push to the next level we supporting you in this healthy journey.
I smell both food and financial freedom. Congratulations Hudson you need to educate your peers on such issues.
I dont see why people in some parts of kenya die of hunger with such proposals on board. if you get the grany kindly conduct also civic education on local farmers on how to exploit their local resources.
Karen thanks. Point well taken
I hope this project puts kenya to the map as through it hopefully sweet potato flour can be among our top exports.
The high nutritional value of sweet potato should be well explained to people who cant stand indigenous crops. Good luck with the project its a nice one
As part of my strategy to succeed, I will launch a massive awareness creation to educate people on the benefits of sweet potatoes
I wad discussing with my friends how wheat is coming over rated and why we should turn to sweet potatoes and the likes as alternatives. thanks to this proposal it was well understood. Thsnl you and good luck.
This proposal is very nice I actually read it twice. The logistics are well put and well researched nice job Hudson you deserve the grant.
I agree with sweet potato flour being a better option than wheat. Wish more light was shed on healthier food options instead of using million of shillings advertising unhealthy food. All the best Hudson.
Nice proposal hope you really granted this is good work.
A very healthy option as people can’t live without flour related products and sweet potato will break the cliché of always turning to wheat. This is a nicely done research. It deserves the grant no doubt.
All the best Hudson. Hope you get the money to start up the business this is encouraging.
Its good to always think of ways to better ourselves and the community at large I bet this proposal covers all that. It deserves to win.
Self employment is what every youth should yearn and not depend on being employed but also creating employment and being better employers good job Hudson.
I love sweet potato and grew up also eating them. They are sweet and no one deserves to look down upon them.
Well put. Healthy foods shouldn’t be debatable whether or whether not to be on the menu. It starts by preaching the benefits I must say you are doing a good job.
This is good work all the best friend hope you get the price.
Yes Rehema; Sweet potato flour can also be mixed with wheat for excellent results.
The mill will benefit farmers who grow the sweet potato crops hope you would start others for the remaining orphaned crops am sure they are equally nice.
Continue spreafimg the gospel of good and healthy food production you will go far in life. All the best.
If many youths were to get involved in such projects Kenya would be a step forward in development. The business proposal you have presented is very nice all the best my brother.
I surely hope this gets the grant its a good one. Nice job Hudson
This is good work hope you get your dreams accomplishmed all the best.
A very good initiative. Very inclusive and inapiring all the best.
Will the mill be in western Or somewhere in Nairobi?
Impressive job the proposal is top notch. I appreciate such creativity.
Sweet potatos should not be known as poor man’s food considering the health benefits they bring. This mentality needs to be changed as soon as possible. The grsnt deserves to be yours for such a healthy outlook.
This proposal sounds successful and you look responsible enough to maintain it. Being a blogger you should educate more people on this. All the best in this.
Such a nice way to financial freedom. I like how you got your thoughts in order. All the best you need it.
Best way to engage the youth in the agribusiness world. I love the venture on the sweet potatoes very innovative.
If this kind of work doesn’t get recognised it will really be a pity. Hudson you’ve done great with presenting this proposal I wish you well.
This is a noble proposal with the right intention indigenous crops need the most love. People like you need to exist in duplicate for the betterment of all. Good job bro
Agriculture is the backbone of the economy and the sooner we embrace the orphaned foods the better we will be as a country in Kenya. Kudos Hudson for the information all the best.
Hi Hudson your idea with the sweet potatoes sounds like it will be a success. Hope you get the grant all the best.
Small scale farmers will have something to smile about for sure from the enterprise all the best Hudson.
The value addition from the sweet potato will help boost the economy i presume. Its a very good venture. It needs to be applauded.
The practical idea behind the proposal is very heart warming. you ought to win.
Good initiative Hudson hope you get the grant.
This is very convincing If i was the one offering the grant i wouldn’t think twice at all to offer it to you the so called orphaned crops are the best food alternatives.
This sounds great, Nothing beats a creative mind that creates opportunities Hudson you set out to do great. Big up
Hey hudson,
Am wishing you all the best the proposal is very nice and already sounds as a success to me.
Agribusiness is what many youths should venture into as gateway to self employment world. It can never go wrong. The sweet potatoes particularly are super great.
Thank you Paul hope many youthmen could see the possibilties and opportunities agriculture brings.
Indigenous crops should be given more light. We would rarely be hearing of cases of diabetes and the likes. Nice project all the best.
That is true Joe. Thank you for the observation.
The economic standards of farmers growing the orphaned crops will be highly raised as such farmers according to me should be the richest. Very thoughtful of the project I agree.
You will definitely go far with this proposal. The mindset you have is that of great leadership. Many youths will so emulate alot from this. Hope you get the capital for the project.
Glad to see women in small scale farming who often suffer through the hands of middlemen will highly benefit from this very wise move.
Yes once the women are empowered the whole community is empowered.
The only way to tackle food insecurity in a country is for the people mostly the youth to learn to appreciate the disliked indigenous crops. Happy to see that in practise. You need to get the grant.
Thank you Zaina thats surely among the top ways. Indigineous foods are very healthy and quite beneficial.
Keep up the good job Hudson i know you are a hardworking person and you’ll make it all the bestn
Beautiful proposal kenya needs more of this kind of people honestly.
Thanks Salim
This information should be accessible to many people who would like to venture on such a business with no idea on how to start.
It will surely be accessible thanks Saul Child.
If the mindsets would be broken I see Kenya being transformed into a better place. Goodluck Hudson
Thank you Lizabeth thats my biggest hope.
If many people would realize the health benefits they would reap from exploiting the likes of sweet potatoes we would result in a healthy working nation.
Great idea. Value addition of the sweet potatoes will lead to increased income to the farmers as well as reduced post harvest wastage.In terms of nutritional value the flour will provide a great supplement and an alternative in the baking.Go go Hudson.
Thanks Carol its all about the betterment of the community as a whole.
its really good one but tell us if the sweet potatoes will need the removal of its bark before you crush them or you will mix all of it.
woow,i like the idea. Go on and make sweet potato valuable
its a good idea especially when you have got all the requirements.
it seems to be simple and nice idea. nice one buddy
Thanks judy.
the idea is great. from what i know potato is very sugary therefore we will save the amount needed to buy sugar.
haha that is also another way to look at it natural sweetness is very healthy.
hehehe,Hudson you really thought hard, keep it the reality friend
Thank you miss.
according to what i have read, your project is simple,clear and affordable. it is also beneficial not only to poor people but to all potato consumers
Thanks for that observation Ben.
the project is great and makes it interesting is your story,,,ooh man make it a reality
haha thank you I surely will if funded thanks.
i like your proposal,keep all the comments as your building step
Good advice Ann. I will
That is awesome,,,my grantma have been producing potato since my childhood,,,i see this as aturning point to those producing potato like her. keep up
Thank you Victor.
Great. now that most of the farmers are concidering potato instead of maize in my region,i believe you will harnest this raw material at alower cost
Hi Mwanja I would like to know which Region that is. Thank you.
Wonderful idea. scientifically coloured potatoes contain both protein and cabohydrates which is essential for growth. keep it going man.
Thank you Okore.
Yes hudson,am also from western and the truth is most of the households depends on sweet potato as their major diet. through your innitiative and creating people’s awareness will change the mentality of most consumers towards sweet potato for the best. am in pal,come we work together.
Hi Dan. We need to link up. Which part of western Kenya are you from??
Go on Wereh,i support your idea. how sweet the products will taste
Hudson,sweet potato does not reguire fertilizers to grow healthy,therefore i suggest that you educate farmers to produce it in large so that you have enough for your project
i agree with you Hudson. if we make sweet potato marketable and change the minds of people that sweet potato is for poor only,then we can creat aviable market not only locally but also foreign
Yes Kevin. The secret is changing attitudes and creating opportunities for the changed attitudes.
Farming is currently the big player of our national GDP,your project will improve and increase the involvement of youths in farming. I like it
Yes Kip. That’s the ultimate target. We want more young people engaging in agriculture
Nice,creative and very innovative,go go go
Admirable,cheap and local farmer friendly project. its cool one.
Thanks. Your observation is correct. It is cheap but high on profits.
very good idea. if you dreamed of doing this then is your time,i don’t any problem with your idea.
Mr Shiraku,you have a very great idea. go on with it.
wooow!,i say am very interested with your project,and your story too. well preserved market awaiting
This is a very good proposal. Sweet potatoes will path a great way to health and wealth good job.
I see a platform also for creating job opportunities. The idea is nice lets keep the indigenous foods going Success.
Hudson I salute you for the idea the sweet potatoes need to be recognised. I always love them and cant wait to try its by products 🙂
Wondering why we never learn such healthy foods from school with much emphasis. It all begins from there. Keep up the good job.
The government uses alot of money in importing food without realising there is much that can be saved if it well exploited its indigenous crops and fairly paying the farmers for a constant supply. Am very proud of you Hudson For this information. If granted the project can be very useful.
I see pride in such creativity from a young person. Who would have thought Sweet potatoes could have such great value all the best Hudson.
As a woman in my right senses am very happy that women in farming will cease the frustration that comes with middlemen. If only manyem would step up for the challenge. Thumbs up Hudson.
I feel flattered Adelaide. Thank you.
Farmers in the region will benefit from this largely. Sweet potatoes have alot to offer. The layout of this project i must say its very nice.
Thank you
Hoping this project would actually convince the youth of the benefits that come with indigenous farming as a way of gaining income.
Hopefully yes.
If all goes well Hudson i would recommend you get a piece of land where you would grow the potatoes yourself and also create employment for others. I wish you well.
Good advice. Point taken
This is a viable project hope it gets the recognition it deserves. All the best brother.
Thanks Lamaz
Am anxious to know where the business will be set up. I would like to see its success. all the best.
Will keep you updated
All the luck you would need for this beautiful proposal to push through am sending you. Good luck.
Thank you Carolina.
How healthy will this be compared to wheat products? i would likw to get the information.
This is very nice Hudson didnt know you had the capability of doing such great things haha all the best bro.
Hahaha flattered. Only doing what I have to.
Impressive work this deserved the prize no doubt. Healthiest option.
Thanks
its very creative and now that the world is struggling to fight food insecurity,such ideas will add a percent on food security.
Thanks. Am only doing what think is right.
I See your dreams Coming into reality. Go on Hudson.
Thanks
well done Hudson. I see it as one of the ideas that will help to fight food insecurity among our grass root people
You’re right Kabuya. If it gets support it will go a long way in helping the community.
Yes mr wereh, this is wonderful, keep going
Thanks Murwai
Am concerned how healthy sweet potatoes are? Do they require fertilisers? what’s their timespan for growth?
Sweet potatoes are easy to manage. They take about three months to mature and with sustainable farming practices, no need for fertilizers.
Its true that people are becoming very conscious of what they consume, many people are in dire need of a healthy choice of diet hence sweet potatoes wi be the quickest healthiest and certainly sweet alternative good job Hudson for putting it well. All the best.
Yeah Njoki. It is from this need that opportunity sprouts. Hopefully I will get the support I need
This is such a convincing project from the well explained business idea to the proposal you deserve it Hudson i wish you well.
Thank you. I am optimistic with your support I will get the funds
viable project. This will surely go far
Thanks Jay
Here is Papua New Guinea, our local people depend very much on this crop as well. It is a staple in many of our rural villages. Would be good to know how this work out for you and could be a good venture for Papua New Guinea as well.
Thanks Ruth. We can get in touch via email hudson_wereh@hotmail.com
Proud of you Hudson, you’ve come from far and your proposal us very amazing Hope you get it.
Hahaha – thank you Dialo
Wonderful job this is impressive, sweet potatoes for health and wealth all the way👍
Thanks
Seems like many people are up for the idea of sweet potatoes as a healthy crop. Take up the challenge on educating the youth masses.
Yes. That’s the way to go Elizabeth.
The proposal looks well researched, whether we like it or not food scarcity can be well compensated by turning to indigenous crops good job.
Yes. I did a lot of research.
Hi Hudson, hope you make this a reality once granted, the idea is very viable.
You are welcome.
Good job wish many youths would embrace such a mentality.
Thank you.
Finally those with wheat related health problems will have a healthier option now i love this.
yes they will and a very healthy option as such.
I support the notion that food security will always be secured of the inhabitants embrace indigenous crops. Kudos Hudson
Very true.
Many people should know the profits of adding value addition to their crops. If Sweet potato in itself will present a lot of opportunities what of others?
Value addition is the way to go.
As a woman I support this project all the way because women in the agriculture sector are the most exploited when it comes to selling their crops that they do so at a throw away price am glad that despite that they are also going to benefit a lot. Thumbs up Hudson👍
Thanks for your support
This proposal I believe has changed the mindsets of many people who didnt know the health and wealth benefits of sweet potatoes. You deserve it hope you proceed.
Hopefully yes
This proposal should be presented im the Government Of Kenya Agriculture ministry there is a lot they can do with it in ensuring food security through adopting the orphaned crops with seriousness and flourishing them.
Thanks for your support. Hope I get sufficient comments to push through to the next phase.
I totally agree that sweet potatoes and other indigenous crops if well endorsed can create alot of wealth with lots of health benefits tagged along. Good luck Hudson this proposal to me is the best.
Thanks for your endorsement
Thanks for speaking highly of my project
Am supporting this propsal because am a woman who is very health conscious. Sweet potatoes health benefits are the one to die for. All the best fingers crossed for you.
thank you Esther glad you appreciate the effort.
Keep preaching that gospel it will one day be largely appreciated. Nice proposal all the very best.
haha yes i surely wont stop thank you.
I will have to find recipes for the unga related products I’ve always loved sweet potatoes. Kudos for this great project you will start soon am sure.
Thanks for your support. Hope I get sufficient comments to push through. I need your support on this.
Noce work bro. This proposal is a success i wish you all the best.
Thanks. Help me mobilize more comments please
Only those with lack of knowledge perish. This proposal is very well thought out and skillfully presented you deserve to win honestly.
Thanks. I like the way you put it.
Nice project Hudson all the best hope you win.
More comments please.
This is such a nice way for one to create self employment am sure the success of this project will inspire many.
You’re right ooooh
Read it carefully in search of mistakes only to my disappointment haha seems someone really did his research well. Good job with the proposal I like will share this definitely.
Thanks
Where does one find this kind of research I would like to venture in something similar or in the neighbourhood of this very impressed with the proposal beautifully done.
Read read and read
Good job Hudson the sky is no longer the limit with such awesome proposals. I wish you all the best.
Thanks for the best wishes
The mill setup will be appreciated by very many sweet potato farmers good job.
Yeah – it will touch on many farmers
Awesome project sweet potatoes for health and wealth wish you all the best.
Thanks for the best wishes
Such an inclusive project everyone benefits in one way or the other health and wealthwise.
Yeah. You’re right Bree
Good project it can go along way if well funded hope you get it.
Right observation.
This is the kind of proposal that is termed as life changing literally and it actually means so Kudos for that Hudson.
Am happy you think of it this way
Wondering how this project would be like if every county on the country adopted it such a viable opportunity for the youth to engage responsibly.
it would be amazing. If every county took up the initiative to combat food insecurity by adapting healthier options which would in turn create wealth opportunities.
All the best Hudson wishing you well.
Thank you Talia.
Great proposal keep it up, women will highly benefit and the farmers at large.
Yes Women are very vulnerable in the agriculture sector and am set to change that.
Thank you Nene.
Good luck Hudson. I wish you the best in future with this project.
Thank you George.
I believe this business will be expanded with adopting other orphaned crops
Yes other orphaned crops have as much health benefits as sweet potatoes I will see to it that they are included in the expansion.
Awesome business bro, all the best man
Thank you Esther.
Finally people can eat nutritious queen cakes made from sweet potato.
Yeah Asiyo. If this project goes through…
Its always applaudible for one to recognise the role of women in the sector, very aspiring
We need to match forward together – men and women if we want to succeed.
I really hope you win, We need people like you in this country. That’s a really good idea and I would like to see it succeed. Count me as your No 1 fan. Cheers
Lets keep our fingers crossed. We shall win
There is a lot of room for improvement in the way we view indegineous crops and this must fill the gap
That’s right bro!
Nice Business Idea Bro!!!
Thanks
The project proposal is worth investing and should be supported fully by everyone
Yes. It should be supported indeed
The government should also start such projects to help fund the youth with such ideas
Yeah. I agree this should be replicated by others as well
Keep this up, we need more of this ideas. Good luck
I agree with you.
The call of every woman and health conscious people to support this is very nice. It deserves recognition
Yeah. Thanks for your comment and I hope I get sufficient comments to push through.
This what Kenya and africa need the most for a stable constant food security in the regions
Yes. This and more needs to be dome to help the resource poor farmers
God Bless your Project!!!
Amen!!
Hope this project goes well.
Thanks for your support. Right now I need sufficient comments to push through.
U hope that this project will be implemented. A lot needs to be done in our country and with food security its possible
Thanks for your support. Hope I get sufficient comments to push through.
I support you Hudson. I stand for your project and hope it gets implemented.
Thanks for your support. Hope I get sufficient comments to push through.
Does the mill machine pollute the environment? As an environmentalist, what is the measure?
It’s powered electrically so no pollution.
Best Idea I have had in Years
How old are you? hahahah but i agree this the best idea
Gender inequality is a real problem. Its really awesome when we as men are the first to fight it. Good work.
You’re right Ronald.
God Bless you Hudson!
One of the best ideas I have ever came across, keep this up
Thanks
OMG what a plan you have. I like I l like I like. Hihihi
hahhaha – thanks Waithera
Don’t forget that many farm workers work under such conditions, ensure they will be favoured by good results.
This project is about those farmers
I find this project cheap and very productive, keep it up
thanks.
I just love how your creativity. Hope to see your plan go through!!!
Thanks. flattered
I would like to help with this project if it proceeds, very promising
Thanks for the offer – we can be partners you know
If all goes through I will be the first to buy your product
You are welcome Carol.
This seems promising, dying to see it proceed
Just pray for me and you’ll see me there – at the top.
Gender equality is the new thing, good luck
Thanks. It is important for development
Hehe Assuming All goes well. Will there be free sample products?? Hihi
That will be part of the strategy to get more customers.
You forgot to say that once women are well paid, their children will be educated and hence better community
Thank you for pointing that out for me. Thanks Toney
You forgot to mention how labourers safety will be ensured. Good idea though
I will refine that bit before rolling out the project
Wow, What a brilliant Idea!! I totally love it. Hope to see it go through.
Sarah, The competition is stiff but am hopeful I’ll sail through
All the Best Hudson. Seems like a good Idea
Thanks. I believe it is Maureen.
Yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!! Go Hudson
Hahahah
Go Hudson Go!!!!
Right on track
Awesome Idea
Thanks Juliet
That’s How I just fell in love with sweet potatoes. Go Hudson!!
Good. I hope to get more coverts
converts
Hope all goes well and leads to employment of the youth. as well
I am hopeful too
Yeee!!! Go Hudson
Naskie, Join me
Wow. Good Idea Bro!! I love the whole concept.
Really flattered
Really Brilliant Idea!! All the best
Thanks
its a good idea mr wereh
Thanks Emanuel
honestly,this project proposal is smart. we need more of this kind
Thanks Katila.
not bad idea,just network in different parts of the country
Okay. Suggestion taken
Did you really went through that? woow,i like your admiration,this is when the dream comes into a reality.go man
Hey. His an idea of what people went through.
This is a practical and well thought project. Well done Hudson
Great Idea Hudson
Hope you sail through with this idea Hudson
This is a nice project idea
A great idea. Push on Wereh
Great thinking. Nicely put together
I like your thinking and the way you say it. All the best
Nice project ideal. Hope you go through
Great Kenyan stuff there. I like the story
This is a funny story – hahahah
Creatively put together
See you at the top inshalah!!
All the best Wereh
Nice efforts there. Hope you go through
Great stuff Wereh. Hope you move on
I great project. All the best
I good initiative. I hope you get supported
You deserve to be supported. This project will have a great impact if implemented wereh
You have my support Wereh. May you win
I support you. This is great stuff for women
A great way to support your community
You have my support Wereh
A great idea it is.
Here to offer my support the proposal is very viable. sweet potatos offer alot of health benefits. good luck Hudson.
This is such an easy way to create self employment it should be well adapted by every youth crying of unemployment though i understand starting capital would be trouble to find. I wish you well Hudson.
This is a wonderful project Wereh.
Great idea!
You got the coyrage to write your story in an inspiring way. A simple guy with a big hope of changing peoples mindests by feeding them healthy all the best.
This idea can be replicated to other areas too
It is a great idea
I sincerely wish your project becomes a success you deserve it
The fact that many women will be empowered by being motivated to grow more crops due to good pay is very motivating. Kudos.
This is a nice people focused project.
Very fruitful the amount of time taken to research this project looks well put up. good job keep it up.
The project sounds healthy hope its eco friendly as well sincde you are an enviromentalist. Wish you well.
This project if well implemented can go very far. I surely hiope it happens.
This project will surely help in improving food security in th region.All the best.
Well thought idea
An interesting project idea
Je l’aime
Nice idea. I love it.
Nice idea
Comical but real. You deserve to win sir
Excellent idea
A wonderful project idea
Hope you go through with this idea. It’s good
keep up with the good work bro Sweet potatoes if very well exploited we can have alot of food in the country thanks to indigineous crops. nice idea.
Well done Wereh!!
It is a wonderful project
Healthy foods should be well accepted by people regardless of their nature in this case sweet potatoes can be well used by anyone in a healthy way and create wealth for some.All the best in getting the grant.
Good project idea
Well done Wereh! Hope you win and proceed to the next phase
Nice project for the women
A simple to implement and beneficial project.
A good project idea Wereh. This will empower the rural communities.
Farmers especially women deserve a fair pay for their crops cause of the hard job the do. You truly want the best for the community. All the best Hud.
All the best Hudson in your quest to self employment very nice venture.
Sweet potatoes are nice and sweet i pity anyone who looks down on them as poor mans food they dont know what they are missing. Be blessed Hudson for such a proposal.
Nice project, would like to see it go through
Noma Bro
Wazi Mzae, Tunangojea
Hehe yani ngwashe inaweza fanya hiyo manenoz yote
Wazo nzuri hilo
A great one. All the best.
its a very important proposal to small scale farmers. nice.
its a good proposal
i like it,if it succeed please found me wambuifaith@gmail.com
great. is one source of employment toyouths.
It takes courage to stand and talk, it also takes courage to sit down and listen. The idea is one in a million, go for it my brother. I share with you the idea.