Hello followers. Welcome to another day of our CEREALS BUSINESS TRAINING.

Business planning is a very important part of every business venture and that is why you hear about it very often.

Unfortunately, most people who think about starting a business usually don`t consider writing a business plan.

I have read from different business experts about the fact that most start-up entrepreneurs do not write a business plan but what I have not read from anyone is why this is so.

Why is it that most people have fear (so to say) about writing a business plan?

I know the answer.

You see, there are many myths and lies you probably have heard about the subject of business plan. Some people present business plan as if it was a university thesis or an academic report to be defended before certain professors.

Other people think that a business plan has to be 50 pages long and that it must be written in a certain “approved” format.

Well, I am here to tell you that all those opinions are not valid.

Because there are some ugly lies around this important business step, most people are “afraid” of doing it

Journey with me as i will reveal the real truth about business plan and at the end of today`s training, you will discover that it is actually easy to write a business plan.

Starting a business is a serious project that often requires huge investments of our time, effort and money. If you want to reduce the chances of failure and improve the odds of success, planning is a must!

If nine out of ten new businesses fail within their first two years, don’t you think good planning can make you ‘lucky’?

Studies show that new businesses that have a plan double their chances of success and are more likely to raise more capital than businesses without a plan.

So, why is it that very few entrepreneurs ever take the time to write a plan for their brilliant business idea?

Well, half of us don’t really know what a business plan is and the other half needs help to write one.

There are three main reasons why anyone may need a business plan.

First, if you are about to start a business and you want to convince certain people to give you capital. In this case, you will want to use your business plan to “sell” your business idea to the investors so that they will be willing to finance your business.

Second, if you want to start a business and you want to be successful. Though you don`t need external investors, you obviously need to grow, to compete and to win the battle of the market place. You need a business plan.

Third, you may need a new business plan because the economic or market situation has made your last plans obsolete. Yes, a business plan is not like an academic paper which may stand for many years and still be relevant.

I wrote a business plan last year (I think April) and by December, it was already obsolete.

Why?

You really don`t know tomorrow. Your projections, plans or tactics are dependent on many factors that are beyond your power and when things change that affect your business (positively or negatively), then your plans also must be re-written.

You can think of a business plan as a roadmap that shows the direction from where you are (idea stage) to where you want to be (successful and profitable business).

A business plan is not the long, complex and scary document many people think it is. In fact, a great business plan can be as simple as a one-page document and could also be a long 100-page presentation. It all depends on its purpose and target audience.

Important reasons why you must have your own business plan…

#1 – You need it

The most important benefit of a business plan is that it helps you to put all those beautiful dreams and ideas you have for your business on paper.

Contrary to what you may think; the business plans you have in your head and on paper are not the same. Taking the time to write down a plan for your business forces you to organize and refine your thoughts.

For the very first time, you will be able to see how everything is connected, and some important things you never really thought about will start to stand out.

On a mental level, writing a business plan will make you take yourself more seriously. Investing time, energy and focus to prepare a plan on paper feels like signing a contract with yourself. It increases the confidence and belief you have in your business idea and focuses your mind on those critical things that are obviously missing.

Before you have a plan on paper, all the ideas and plans you have for your business live inside your head. The problem is that they keep swirling around in a random and disorganized fashion. But when you have finished preparing your business plan, it feels like you have a map to your ‘promised land’ with a clear direction and a laser focus.

A business Plan helps you find the gaps in your idea and focus on the things that are really important.

When you interact with an entrepreneur who has taken the time to prepare a business plan, you will know. She is usually more articulate, confident and knows the business like the back of her hand because she can visualize the roadmap in her head. This is what you get when you go through the rigour of preparing a proper business plan.

#2 – Banks and investors will want to see it

Depending on the amount of capital you’re asking for, most investors (including your mom) may want to see a plan that proves to them you know what you’re talking about.

Banks and formal investors (like angels and venture capitalists) want to know if your business can make enough profits to pay back a loan (with interest) and provide a good return on an investor’s investment.

Banks and investors would want to see your marketing plan. They want to see the profiles of the people who will run and manage the business/company. They want to see a cashflow forecast and your projected profits for the next 3 to 5 years. They want to see that you have analyzed your competition and have a plan for your products and services.

Banks and investors will want to see all these things (and more) to convince themselves that your business deserves a loan or it is worth investing in.

Above all, having a well-prepared business plan is often a sign that you are a serious, organized and disciplined person. This is usually the kind of person investors and banks will want to give their money to.

Most people make the common mistake of thinking that business plans are only for startup businesses looking to raise capital.

Big lie! Even established companies need business plans too.

Plans are useful at every stage in the life of a business, whether it’s looking for startup capital or considering options to expand.

In today`s training, we shall look at the powerful things a business plan can and will do for you. Whether you’re still at the idea stage or have an existing business you want to grow and expand, I’m sure you will find great value in the things you’re about to read.

First, a few important questions…

Why do many entrepreneurs who have brilliant business ideas never find the capital to transform their ideas into real-life businesses?

Why do most startup businesses fail to attract the loans and investments they need to grow and succeed?

Why do more than 80 percent of businesses fail within their first five years?

One simple answer:

Many of them didn’t have a plan.

Like most people who travel to an unknown destination without a map, guide or directions, these businesses got lost and never reached their destination (success).

A business is not a hobby or playful adventure. As an important venture that requires an investment of time, effort and money, entrepreneurs just have to take business planning very seriously.

One thing is clear: planning is a habit of ALL successful businesses that still exist today!

Five main benefits of a business plan for you.

1. A Business Plan is a Strong Commitment

“It pays to plan ahead. It wasn’t raining when Noah built the ark.” – Peter F Drucker –

According to data from the Panel Study of Entrepreneurial Dynamics, which involved a survey of more than 800 people in the process of starting businesses, writing a plan greatly increases the chances that a person would actually go into business.

Entrepreneurs who have the discipline to prepare a business plan are two and a half times more likely to get into business.

That’s powerful!

Writing a business plan helps you to focus and fight procrastination. Investing time and effort in researching your target market, analyzing your competitors and estimating profit figures is bound to increase your interest in bringing your business idea to life.

A business plan has the power to positively affect your mindset.

When an idea is left undeveloped, it starts to lose significance. As you gather information about your business, you start to develop a strong level of confidence and ‘can-do’ spirit around your business idea. You will experience less fear and see more possibilities in your idea.

Whether you plan to start a business from scratch or want to expand an already established business, a plan will keep you interested, focused, committed and determined to take action.

2. A Business Plan Helps To Develop Your Idea

“Planning is bringing the future into the present so that you can do something about it now.” – Alan Lakein –

When you first have an idea, it exists as a cloud of thought in your mind.

The problem with thoughts is if you don’t write them down, you may forget or never remember them entirely.

So you decide to write down your brilliant business idea on a piece of paper (or in MSWord on your laptop). Yes, finally, it can never be lost or forgotten!

The problem is, what you have written is just an idea, and it’s not the same thing as a real life business. To become a real business, certain actions and investments of time, effort and money must happen to transform your beautiful idea into a successful business.

How will you start? How much will you need and who will you get it from?

What kind of customers will you target? Who is your competition and what will you do to protect your business from them?

Are there any licenses, permits or government approvals you need before you start? Who will be responsible for what?

All of these are important questions that must be answered in order to transform your idea into a real business.

A business plan allows you to see your business from the top and understand how all the elements will fit into one another.

The most important thing that every plan does is to bring your attention to gaps and holes you may have missed because they didn’t seem very apparent in the beginning. In fact, business plans often bring up interesting and creative alternatives that could make your original idea much better and powerful.

3. A Business Plan Makes You Prepared And More Likely To Succeed

“To be prepared is half the victory.” – Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra –

I just love Toyota because it’s definitely one the most successful car brands in the world. Year after year, it continues to release the most beautiful and reliable ‘driving machines’ my eyes have ever seen!

Like most car manufacturers, Toyota invests a lot of time, effort and money in the early stages of developing every new car model.

A couple of years before the new model is released, Toyota’s engineers and specialists brainstorm tirelessly on different aspects of the new car model, especially in the areas of comfort, safety, speed, control and beauty.

Why doesn’t Toyota just go ahead and build the car? After all, it has a top team of highly talented and experienced designers, engineers and technicians. With all its talent and experience, why does Toyota still spend all that time, effort and money in planning?

Toyota is serious about planning because it knows planning is always required for success. It knows planning is critical to build cars that people will love and be happy to buy. It invests in

planning at the early stages because it knows that’s the best way to build something that will beat the competition. And guess what, it always works!

Toyota is always prepared; that’s why it always succeeds!

Abraham Lincoln, one of the greatest presidents of America that ever lived, once said:

“Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.”

What does this tell you about planning? Unless you plan to waste time and suffer the emotional trauma of mistakes, investing in planning usually leads to better preparedness, fewer surprises and a higher likelihood for success.

4. A Business Plan Keeps You and Your Business Accountable

“Proper planning prevents poor performance.” – Charlie Batch –

You are very likely to be the biggest risk to your business. Yes, you! Because you are answerable to no one in your business, there’s usually that temptation to take the business for granted. It’s your idea and your business. Everybody answers to you because you’re the boss almighty. But who do you answer to?

Unlike your employees who can be fired, there’s no punishment and nothing to hold you accountable if you procrastinate, backslide or fail to meet targets and deadlines.

A business plan allows you to set goals and track your progress and levels of achievement over time. Without this accountability, your business will always be subject to guesses and impulsive actions and will definitely perform below its best potentials.

People who set Specific, Measurable and Time-bound (SMT) targets for themselves usually perform much better than others. If I plan to lose 5 kilograms (11 pounds) of weight in one week, that’s an SMT target.

If I start on Sunday and by Wednesday, I notice I have lost only one kilogram, I would be moved to increase my efforts because I know it would be impossible to achieve my target if I continued at my current pace.

Because I know my target is time-bound (1 week), there will be more urgency in my attitude to meet this target. And when I meet my targets, I make progress; which is exactly the result I want!

A business plan is the only way I know for entrepreneurs and businesses to hold themselves accountable using Specific, Measurable and Time-bound targets. It’s the best way to eliminate procrastination, reduce the fear of failure and inspire yourself to take quick and bold actions that will make your dream business come true!

5. A Business Plan Increases Your Chances of Raising Capital

“Good fortune is what happens when opportunity meets with planning.” – Thomas Edison –

Nobody can read your mind. This includes potential business partners, bank loan officers, investors and other people who can provide the capital you need to start or expand your business.

How can you bring out that brilliant business idea from your mind and present it to these people in a way that convinces them to invest in and support your business?

Well, there’s an easy option. Why don’t you just open your mouth and tell them the whole story.

Hahahaa!

Most people who try this will surely end up confused and stammering.

Why put yourself through this trouble when you can have a business plan do all the talking for you?

A plan is the most effective way to communicate your business idea to other people in a clear, complete and convincing manner. It’s no longer that odd idea you had in your head. It’s now on paper. It’s concrete proof to anyone who sees it!

Partners, investors and bankers are more likely to take you seriously if you have a well-written and professional business plan.

Banks and investors actually take business plans very seriously. Why? Because the information it provides helps them to properly measure the risk of investing in your business.

Banks and investors take calculated risks; they are not gamblers. It’s highly unlikely that they will give you their money and hope that your business is successful and turns a profit.

Anybody who’s interested in your business idea wants to see that you have taken the time to do a proper and detailed planning. They want to see your Profit Forecasts. They are interested in your Competitive Analysis and the quality of experience you have to successfully run the business.

The more information they have, the more convincing your business dream becomes to them.

Whether you are applying for a bank loan, looking for a partner or venture capitalist to invest in your business, applying for a government loan or grant, or entering for a fundraising competition, you stand a better chance of winning and raising the capital you need if you have a well-written and professional looking business plan.

Do You Have A Business Plan?

“Failing to plan is planning to fail.” – Alan Lakein –

A business plan is not just a fundraising tool or that boring document that only big businesses write. It’s for everybody!

It’s for the young lady who has been nursing an idea and wants to quit her job to start a cereals retail business.

It’s for that man who has been running a Cereals business for three years but now wants to expand his business and take it to the next level.

A dream is still a dream until it leaves your head and becomes a Specific, Measurable and Time-bound plan.

HOW LONG SHOULD A BUSINESS PLAN BE?

It all depends on your objective and who will read it.

The last business plan I wrote was written on a single sheet of A4 paper. I typed and printed it out.

If you intend to write a business plan for yourself and not to convince any investor, I strongly recommend that you write your business plan in a single sheet of paper or two, worst, three.

I know this is a strange advice so let me explain.

You see, human nature loves complexity while simplicity is the only valuable thing.

Anything that is too complex will give you stress and then become a burden on you, then you’ll abandon it … making it useless.

If you are planning to write a business plan for your own usefulness, you will have to review it often (or else you won’t even follow it), so tell me, which document is easier to review, a ten pages document or two?

You know the answer.

What if you want to write a business plan to convince the investors?

Some people will advise you to write 50 pages and some other entrepreneurs might have written 100 pages in the past, but let me tell you the truth, nobody has time to read your thesis except the university professors.

The only people who have so much time are the poor people and I am sure if at all you want to use your business plan to get an investor to finance your business, then you are talking about someone who is (probably) very busy.

Let me tell you this so that you will understand what I am saying here. Many CVs have been submitted to me by job seekers in the past and I am sure they would have prepared those CVs thinking, “I will impress the employers”.

Well, here comes the sad news … I have never in my life read a CV, I scan through them. I don`t have time.

Your business plan is like the CV for the job seekers. How long should it be?

Its again depends on who will read it. 10 pages may help you. 15 pages may help you, but when you`re going beyond 20 pages, I am out!

If you forget everything, make sure you don`t forget this… the investors you will give your business plan, really don`t have time.

HOW MANY YEARS SHOULD A BUSINESS PLAN BE?

Another area where people miss it. They are writing 5 or 10 years business plan. I laugh.

Think about planning for your business the way you think about goals for your life.

When I first learned about goal setting, I was impressed and I started by writing 5 to 10 years goals.

I was wrong.

It never worked. I later started writing one year goals and now I am writing goals for a third of the year (4 months).

The reason is simple… you`re a human being like all of us. What you think/plan may not happen the way you plan it.

Any business plan that is more than one year is actually questionable. That is my opinion.

Any other business expert may tell you something different.

Let me cross out a popular lie about a business plan. Most people believe that if your business plan is well written, it will win you huge amount of money from the investors.

This is like telling a graduate, hey, if you can write your CV very well, you will be employed in a big company.

I hate certificates and CVs, and every single time people have submitted them to me, I have asked myself, what value can this man/woman give us (our business)?

Do you think I am the only one with this mindset?

Do you think your intending investors will be bought by a super-written plan? Think again.

Most investors will rather judge your five sentences than your 50 pages plans. That doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t write your plan very well. It simply means that you have more to do than just writing a plan.

You have to understand in and out, front and back, up and down of your intended business.

In fact, the written plan is nothing but the abstract of what is in your head, or else, you`ll fail in your attempt to convince business partners or investors to help finance your business.

Some people believe that a business plan is what anyone (an expert) can sit down somewhere and just write for them.

Someone called me sometimes ago and that was what he wanted me to do for him. If I write a “superb” plan for you, will I still be the one to defend it when your investors ask you questions?

That is why the first task you have is to understand your business very well.

SEVEN THINGS THAT YOUR BUSINESS PLAN SHOULD CONTAIN.

I will not write any complex term or academic jargon here (because I believe the world is not complex)

1. Your business name/title.

This is obvious. Example… Muguku Cereals Business Plan

2. Objective/summary.

They call this Executive Summary, but don’t be deceived by this name. It simply means, why you are writing this plan.

What do you want to achieve with your plan? If you’re giving it to an investor, what do you want from him?

Constructively state your objective here. If you are giving your plan to someone you want to convince to partner with you, state your objective and if your intention is to get him to finance your business venture, state that here.

3. Business description.

What and what is your business all about? What are the future possibilities and threats in your business?

Describe your intending business here.

4. Market strategy.

An investor expects you to be familiar with your product/service and market.

He wants you to convince him of your intending marketing strategies. How do you intend to win a good market share for your produce? This is very important, even if you are not presenting your plan to any investor.

I advise you to conduct a market analysis. What that simply means is that you should spend time to research and understand your market, then position yourself with the tactics to win. That`s what an investor wants you to tell him here.

5. Competitors` analysis.

Here, an investor will want you to convince him that you understand the strengths and weaknesses of your competitors.

Some people come up with a formula they call SWORT analysis.

It simply means that you should analyze the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunity, Reward and the Threats in the market place.

This will help you to know how to play your business game and if you will be presenting your business plan to an investor, this will encourage him that you actually understand your “enemies” and you are able to kill them.

6. Your people.

If I want to invest with you, won’t I have interest in knowing who and who will be part of your agribusiness team? That is what you will want to write here.

Who will be doing what, who will be handle what and who will be employed later to take care of what? These are the answers you have to provide here.

7. Financial situations and forecasts.

Here you will want to write about the financial requirements of your business, amount on ground now and what and what is needed.

There you have it. A guide that can help you to write a good agribusiness plan.

Click on the link below for sample Business plans that can act as a guide for you on how business plans look like.

https://www.profitableventure.com/business-plans

END OF DAY 4 CEREALS BUSINESS TEACHING SESSION

We now come to the end of today`s teaching session, The PDF of this teaching is available here. Please comment your thoughts and questions below.

Hello followers. Welcome to another day of our CEREALS BUSINESS TRAINING.

The difference between a good business location and a bad one is like the difference between walking and flying from Cairo to Johannesburg. Both means will get you there, but for one you will use more energy, resources and time.

Choosing a business location is an issue most entrepreneurs approach with a pinch of salt. Many business startups, in order to reduce expenditure usually settle for a cheap location. Others believe that location doesn’t matter provided the product is right.

However, getting a good location is very critical to the success of your business but this can prove quite difficult because one of the challenges of starting a business successfully is getting a good business site.

While in some businesses location might not be key, in many others it is the determinant between failure and success.

Location here refers to the place the business meets its clients. While some businesses do very well on the Internet, there is still need for such a business to have a physical location both for accountability and to inspire trust.

Your business location is important for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it will determine who your target market is. If you are selling products or services that are geared towards a local audience, then you will need to choose a location that’s convenient for them.

Secondly, your location will also affect the costs associated with running your business. Things like rent, utilities, and labour will all be determined by where you are located.

Make sure that the people living in, working or passing through that area are your target group.

In other words, they should be willing and able to buy your products. Further, the people should be numerous enough to generate enough sales to sustain the business.

The right location can mean the difference between a successful venture and one that struggles to get off the ground.

Choosing an excellent location for your cereals business will help you maximize profits. It will be best to locate your cereals store at a location where your target customers can access easily.

If your target customers are households, locate your business in estates. Your business premises can be in the form of small stalls, shop within a building, open air, or an online store.

Setting up online stores is the new normal in business. As such, you can decide to sell your cereals in an online store. Online stores are cheaper to run since you will not need to pay rent, business licenses and permits, and electricity bills. You only need to finance marketing expenses to reach your target customers.

For most people starting a business, I usually advise that you create an online market first before thinking about a physical shop.

The good thing about an online shop is that you don’t have to stress about things like city council licenses or paying rent.

Create a Facebook page, use maybe Ksh.1,000 or less to promote it to reach the target people and you are in business.

Create a WhatsApp group and add your friends. Also let your friends add their friend who are potential customers.

Instagram is also a popular site.

Ensure that you market your stuff in the best way, provide advantages like free delivery within a given area and be aware of the competition since you are not the only one selling.

Online selling is about what makes your products unique. It could be your delivery fee or the quality of your items.

All in all choose a powerful selling point and that is how you will keep people coming.

However, if you have the money to set up a physical shop, go with a place that has high traffic.

It would be awesome to combine both online and physical selling.

Find a hotspot

A lot comes to mind when you think of a business location. Nowadays, business is even virtual, and with no specific location. However, at some point, people will have to come to your store or shop.

Choosing a strategic business location is one thing you want to do right. You get this right, and you are on to a good start.

Have you ever seen businesses fighting over a spot?

It is a hot spot like a wi-fi. There are those specific places with a strong network. In business terms, there are those corners or streets with most clients. Willing buyers.

I challenge you to walk on any city or town streets, and you will notice that some shop space cost way more than others despite being in the same city or town. The answer is simply the location.

That pricing can be justified considering the crazy human traffic in that street, and thus business space is expensive. You will definitely get clients, and that rent will pay itself in two to five days. And by the time you clear your stock, you will be glad you put your products or services on that part of town.

Your business should be accessible. How accessible is your location?

Human beings are generally lazy and economic. They will not want to walk three kilometres to buy your products when they can get the same 30 metres away.

There are businesses that are prospering for being out of town, a nice getaway from the hassle of the city, but even they make less than their counterparts in town, all factors constant. The rule of the thumb is; be easily accessible.

Consider how accessible the place will be for everyone who will be using it – customers, employees, and suppliers. What sort of deliveries are you likely to receive, and will your suppliers be able to easily and efficiently get your supplies to your business?

Pick up vehicles and lories need to get in and out quickly; trucks need adequate roads and loading and off loading docks if you are going to be receiving a lot of sacks of cereals.

Be sure there’s ample convenient parking for both customers, suppliers and employees.

As with foot traffic, take the time to monitor the location at various times and days. You can also use online tools like Google Maps to get an idea of the traffic in the area.

Get your visibility right.

The biggest fast food chain in the USA MacDonald’s made it to the top by always placing their restaurants at crossroads where the joints can be seen from multiple streets.

This trend has been copied by the South African chain joints in Kenya today. It is important that your clients see you when they need your products. Position yourself where everyone can see you, hiding won’t pay the bills.

Consider the Type of Business

Different businesses have different needs when it comes to their location.

For example, if you’re in the retail business, then you’ll need to choose a location that’s convenient for your customers and has high foot traffic. On the other hand, if you are in the milling and packaging business, then you’ll need to choose a location that’s close to your suppliers and has good transportation access.

To figure out what type of location is best for your business, you’ll need to consider the type of business you’re in and what your specific needs are.

If you are running an online business, then your location is not as important. However, if you’re looking to open a brick-and-mortar business, then you’ll need to choose a location that’s convenient for your customers.

Look at Your Budget

When choosing a location for your business, you’ll need to consider your budget. Things like rent, utilities, and labour will all be determined by where you’re located.

To get an idea of how much it will cost to run your business in a particular location, you’ll need to do some research and talk to other businesses in the area.

You can also use online tools like the Cost of Living Calculator to compare the cost of living in different locations.

Consider Your Brand

Your business location will also have a bearing on your brand. For example, if you’re selling products or services that are geared towards a luxury market, then you’ll need to choose a location that’s in an affluent neighborhood.

On the other hand, if you’re selling products or services that are geared towards a more budget-conscious market, then you’ll need to choose a location that’s in a more affordable neighborhood.

To figure out what type of location is best for your brand, you’ll need to consider the type of products or services you’re selling and who your target market is.

Consider the Local Market

When choosing a location for your business, you’ll also need to consider the local market. Things like demographics, income levels, and consumer spending habits will all have a huge impact on your business.

To get an idea of the local market, you can talk to other businesses in the area or use online tools like Google Trends.

Consider the Safety of the Location

Look at things like crime rates, natural disasters, and infrastructure. This is especially important if you will be selling products or services that could be targeted by criminals.

You’ll need to look for a location that has good lighting and is in a well-traveled area. You may also want to consider installing security cameras and alarm systems.

Consider the Proximity to other Businesses and Services

Take a look at what other businesses and services are in the vicinity from two key perspectives.

First, see if you can benefit from nearby businesses by the customer traffic they generate–because those businesses/companies and their employees and customers could become your customers, or because it may be convenient and efficient for you to be their customer.

Second, It can be helpful to locate your business near other businesses and services that complement what you’re selling. For example, if you are opening a cereals shop, you may want to be near a posho mill business or a groceries business.

Look at the Competition

Are competing businesses located nearby? Sometimes that’s good, such as in industries where comparison shopping is popular.

You may also catch the overflow from existing businesses. But if a nearby competitor is only going to make your marketing job tougher, look elsewhere.

If there are already many businesses selling what you want to sell, you may have a difficult time getting customers.

You will need to offer something that the other businesses don’t in order to attract customers. This could be a lower price, a higher quality product, or better customer service.

Consider the Demand for Your Products or Services

Before you choose a location, you need to make sure that there is a demand for your products or services in the area.

If there are few people in need of what you are selling, you may have a hard time making a profit.

You can do some market research to find out if there is a demand for your products or services in the area you are considering. Talk to people in the community and see if they would be interested in what you’re selling.

You can also look at things like the population density and income levels in the area.

If there are many people in the area and they have high incomes, you are more likely to find customers for your business.

However, if there are few people in the area or they have low incomes, you may have a hard time finding customers.

SELECTING YOUR TARGET MARKET.

If I were to ask you this question “Who is your target market?” What would you answer?

Well, if you are like most small business owners, chances are that you will confidently answer “Everyone”. Or maybe you will be a little more specific and answer “I target everyone from students, their parents, construction workers etc.”

Well, the second answer sounds much better, but to a person who understand the hassle of being in business, it isn’t satisfactory.

The truth is that in order for your business to succeed, you need to be ultra-specific about who your customer is, where to find him and what they like to buy. A typical Kenyan market environment can be broken down into a gazillion target markets.

But for purposes of simplicity and ease of understanding, let us discuss 4 categories that you can choose to target.

1. Low Class Market (A.K.A Low Income Market)

Who are they: They are the people who earn less than Ksh.200 a day. They don’t have much spending power and they generally live in slum areas or remote rural areas. Most of the problems are quite basic i.e. food, shelter and clothing.

How to target them: They mostly listen to radio and don’t know much about social media. They can also be reached through door-to-door marketing.

2. Students & Unemployed Youth Market

Who are they: They are young, vibrant and aggressive. They don’t have much financial power as they mainly rely on student’s loans and handouts from parents to survive. You can find them on social media and they are normally described as the generation of tomorrow.

How to target them: You can target them through social media. They also listen to radio and read blogs, so you can target them through that channel as well. Door to door market can also work but only if you can find them in communal settings such as hostels or social gatherings.

3. Gender-Specific Market

Who are they: We have two main genders in the world; the male gender and the female gender. Given that these two groups have different preferences, you can choose to focus on a particular gender particularly if you want to penetrate into an extremely competitive market.

With your cereals business you can decide to target women especially those who are employed, moms or married women e.t.c

4. Middle Class Market (Kenya’s Fastest Growing Market Segment)

Who are they: In Kenya the middle class market comprises of people who spend between Ksh.24,000 and Ksh.200,000 in a month. As you can see, this is a pretty huge market, with immense decision making power and one worth targeting.

How to target them: The middle class are very specific about quality, Grade A (camera clothes). Most of them spend at least 3 hours a day behind a computer meaning that you can

reach them via online promotional methods such as Google, WhatsApp and Facebook advertising.

They mostly listen to radio as they drive to and from work (or in public transport) meaning that you can also reach them via radio advertising. Door-to-door marketing is less effective with the middle class unless you operate on a referral basis i.e. “you tell a friend to tell a friend” system.

PICK A NICHE IN CEREALS BUSINESS

If you wish to run a successful business, you have to pick a niche. In fact, choosing your niche is one of the most important parts of the process.

Let’s take a little look at how you can go about picking a niche for your cereals business.

So, What is a Niche?

Well, the simple definition is that it is a segment of a much larger market. Let’s say that you are in cereals retail. You are not just going to focus on selling everything, right?

Of course not! You will want to sell one to three specific lines of cereals. Let’s say, for instance, maize, beans and rice.

By selecting a niche, you will be able to focus on one specific area of the market and do it incredibly well. If you try selling many different products, it will be tough to focus your advertising unless you are a wholesaler.

Be Different

When you choose your niche, you need to make sure that you stand out. You want to be sure that the market does not have too much competition BUT you also need to make sure that the sales are there.

A business which sells only rice is going to stand out, but are there really going to be enough people out there who are looking to buy products from you? Can you stay in business?

Understand Your Niche

It is also important that you actually understand the niche that you operating in. You are only going to be able to make money if you actually understand what you are selling.

People will be counting on you for advice. People will be counting on you to source the right products for them. If you do not have knowledge of that particular niche, things will end up being incredibly difficult.

Of course, you will also want to choose a niche which fits the area that you are in. Let’s say that you are planning on opening in the middle of a fairly rich neighborhood. Do you really want to be selling quality rice that has been targeted towards people who are trying to be frugal?

The answer to this question is no. So, therefore, you are going to deal with Grade A.

Available Stock Level

Finally, make sure that whatever niche you select, you need to be able to have a decent amount of stock in your store. If you do not have the stock that you need, you will find that people do not visit you.

END OF DAY 3 CEREALS BUSINESS TEACHING SESSION

We now come to the end of today`s teaching session, The PDF of this teaching is available here. Please comment your thoughts and questions below.

Hello followers, Welcome to another day of our *CEREALS BUSINESS TRAINING*.

Food traders are the most essential service providers in the world. They provide food and nutritional security for millions of people by linking farmers and food processors to consumers. In Kenya, they buy, store, dry, re-bag and distribute all food types.

To start a cereal business in Kenya, you need to be able to purchase cereals in bulk and transport them with ease. If you are looking at selling in different areas, then you will also need a good vehicle for transportation.

The amount you need will depend on a number of factors.

Variety of cereals: If you are looking at just one cereal, then the amount will probably be small. But if your business plan involves selling different types of cereals, then you will need considerable investment to get started.

Type of Cereal: Some cereals are obviously more expensive than others. For instance, beans in Kenya is usually more expensive than maize while millet is more expensive than beans.

It is good that you first identify the most profitable cereals in Kenya before you can buy stock. This will help you avoid buying slow moving stock which may end up going bad before you can sell it. You can stock cereals like beans, maize, rice, wheat, sorghum, millet, green grams, and flour.

In today`s training we shall teach you about the various kinds of cereals you can stock in your cereals business.

RICE VARIETIES

Rice distribution business is a lucrative business that prospective investors should consider looking into here in Kenya because it’s very promising, especially when the profit potentials are analyzed.

You will agree with me that there’s no home in Kenya that doesn’t eat rice. As a matter of fact, rice is regarded as a holy grail that can’t be done without.

Below are the various rice varieties you can sell in Kenya.

1. Sidano / Biriyani

Sidano or Biriyani Rice; A non-aromatic and imported popular rice variety especially for the budget conscious households. When cooked the rice separates easily, another reason for it’s popularity.

Being a popular rice it has also become prone to being mixed with other cheaper variety.

2. Kenya Pishori (Mwea Pishori)

Kenya Pishori; An aromatic and most popular local rice variety especially for household consumption amongst the middle class, and therefore prone to numerous market tricks especially, mixing the rice with cheaper variety in order to earn brokers a quick buck.

3. Hola Pishori

Hola Pishori is an aromatic rice variety mostly found on the East Africa Coast of Kenya and Tanzania. The rice is an all time favorite for Mombasa residents and Tanzanians living in Nairobi

4. Tanzania Pishori

Tanzania Pishori; A very aromatic rice, mostly popular for it’s strong aroma. The rice also requires a lot of attention in cooking, as it tends to cake.

It should be cooked in low heat at 1.5 part water instead of 2 part water ratio to rice as in the other variety.

5. Thai Parboil

Thai Parboil; The rice is non-aromatic and imported from Thailand. The rice because of its increased volume when cooked, is a favorite among low income households. Mother’s also like it because its big grains gives a comfortable eat especially for small children thereby making it very filling in comparison to other rice varieties.

6. Super Basmati Parboil

Super Basmati Parboil is a very slim long grain rice imported from Pakistan and India. The rice is Grade 1, and extremely popular for making pilau with clients who are not sure how much water to add to the pilau, because of its ability to not cake easily no matter how much water is used to boil it.

Its a very tasty non aromatic rice.

Super Basmati grain is much more slender than the Sidano rice grain. The rice is parboil so it is off white in color.

7. Golden Basmati Parboil

Golden Basmati Parboil; The rice is non-aromatic and imported from India and Pakistan. The grain is slightly bigger than the Super Basmatic parboil. The parboil rice is normally boiled with the husks before it is milled. Golden Basmati is a popular pilau rice.

8. 5 Star Basmati Rice

5 StarBasmati; A non-aromatic and imported popular rice variety especially for the low income households, and schools. The rice is popular for it’s pocket friendly price, however the rice tends to easily cake. While the rice is for human consumption, it is increasingly become popular with many dog lovers and breeders, as affordable additional to dog meal.

BEANS VARIETIES

Beans are protein sources and Kenya is heavily dependent on them. The bean market, globally and internationally, is overwhelming. Prices for 90 kg bags of beans vary between Ksh.7,000 and Ksh.12,000, depending on the quality and type of beans.

Beans in particular, whether it is a harvesting season or not, attract high pricing. There are still certain species that are more costly than others. For example, rose coco and kidney beans are a little cheap in comparison with the many other varieties.

Below are the various beans varieties you can sell in Kenya.

1. Rosecoco Beans

Many farmers have marveled at the productivity of Rosecoco beans since ancient times. As a result, Rosecoco beans farming has spread its root in the Kenyan cereal market. Rosecoco Farming in Kenya both rural and urban farmers who enjoy a good return.

Among all the bean farming varieties, Rosecoco beans have emerged to be one of the varieties with low production costs. Rosecoco does not require special attention from the farmer apart from panting and weeding. The variety is rated to have a strong disease resistance and adapts well to the Kenyan climatic condition.

2. Mwezi-Moja

Mwezi-Moja; alias Kabulangeti (Zambia) is a purple bean, and as the names (one month in swahili) indicates the bean matures very quickly.

Mwezi-Moja is popular for fresh maize Githeri (cooked mixture of maize and beans) and Madondo (beans stew) as it takes a shorter time to cook in comparison to other beans.

3. Nyayo Beans

Nyayo Beans (Long Red Speckled) also known as Nambale, NABE 19, NABE 4, K132 (Uganda), Maluwa (Malawi), Kabanima (Tanzania), Lyambai (Zambia), Royal Bacara (Zimbabwe). Nyayo beans is an all season bean and is the most popular bean variety in restaurants, and small size food vendors. Nyayo bean is highly favored due to it rich red color when cooked with maize, along with it’s rich red stew. The Nyayo beans are mostly imported from Uganda and Tanzania.

4. Saitoti

Saitoti Beans (medium, red mottled) alias NABE-17 (Uganda), Lyambai (Zambia), Napilira (Malawi) Bilfa Uyole (Tanzania); Very popular with hotels and restaurants, and a favorite in household consumption. Saitoti bean shares similar features with Nyayo beans however it is characterized by being shorter Nyayo bean.

5. Wairimu

Wairimu Bean (Long Red beans); alias Uyole 96 (Tanzania), Red Wollayta (Ethiopia) Famous of its rich red color in Githeri (cooked mixture of maize and beans) and Madondo (beans stew).

The Wairimu beans are mostly imported from Uganda and Tanzania. There are two Wairimu beans variety the shinny polished variety popularly know as Royal.

6. Mwitemani

Mwitemani, popularly know as Pinto bean or Sura Baya is a cream bean with black strips that is very popular for Githeri (cooked mixture of maize and beans).

The bean is very popular especially in Western Kenya, Kenyan Coast, as it is very tasty and is very popular with individuals with sensitive stomachs.

7. Sugar Beans

Kikara/Kakunzu or Sugar Bean – (Kenya), Kholophethe, Nyati Red (Malawi), Golden Starlite (Zimbabwe), Masavu/NABE11 (Uganda) is a white/cream maroon stripped bean often mistaken for Mwitemani.

Sugar beans are imported from Uganda into the Kenyan market.

8. Gachuma/Kachuma

Gachuma/Kachuma Bean (Kenya), alias; Naser (Ethiopia); Very similar to Kituru/Gituru bean but is small round deep red kidney bean its small size and polished look sets it apart. This bean is season and may not be available all the time like the Nyayo bean.

9. Yellow Beans

Yellow Beans (A greenish bean) alias Kathika (Kenya), Soya Njano (Tanzania).

Yellow Beans is commonly found in Africa countries, the bean is tasty and does not give gas. While greatly lacking in color when cooked the bean is an increasing great meat supplement in domestic household consumption.

Yellow Beans fetches the highest prices.

10. Gituru, Kituru, Canadian Wonder

Gituru alias; Kituru or Canadian Wonder Bean (Kenya), Urafiki (Tanzania); Sapatsika (Malawi) Deep Red, Shiny long kidney bean, often mistaken for Wairimu Royal; however it’s distinct tastes, long size and polished look sets it apart.

11. Butter Beans (White) Noe

White Butter Beans popularly know as Noe White in Kenya. Butter beans are grown in Kenya in Nanyuki, and some parts of Kitui. Butter beans are not grown much because they are crawling beans that decrease other crop yield when intercropped.

Butter Beans varieties are white, brown, purple or black bean, that is popular for bean stew, it takes a shorter time to cook in comparison to other beans.

12. Butter Beans (Purple / Black) Noe

Black Butter Beans popularly know as Noe Black in Kenya. Butter beans are grown in Kenya in Nanyuki, and some parts of Kitui.

Butter beans are not grown much because they are crawling beans that decrease other crop yield when inter-cropped.

Black Noe is increasing becoming very popular because it is tasty and lacks of an after taste in comparison to the white noe.

13. Butter Beans (Noe) Speckled

Red Speckled Butter Beans popularly know as Speckled Noe Black in Kenya. The speckles on this variety of butter beans gives it a beautiful and interesting pattern, which is maintained even after the bean is fully cooked. Speckled butter beans are as tasty as they look.

LEGUMES (OTHER THAN BEANS)

Legume is an all-encompassing term for plants with pods that have edible seeds in them. So legumes can refer to any number of plants. In fact, there are more than 19,000 species of legumes!

Though there are many species, most of them fit into certain common categories. This includes soybeans, pulses, fresh peas, beans, and peanuts. Chances are, you will have eaten at least some of the more common ones.

Beans are legumes, but not all legumes are beans. For example peas, lentils, and peanuts are not beans but are legumes.

Below are the various legume varieties you can sell in Kenya.

1. Njahi, Dolichos, Black Indian Bean, Mbumbu

Njahi, Dolichos, Black Indian, Mbumbu is popular for it’s high protein nutritional value. Excellent meal for nursing mothers as it is traditional known to aid in breast milk production

2. Ndengu nylon

Ndengu nylon is basically a tiny circular shaped bean that is green in color. They have a polished/shiny look.

They are mostly imported from Tanzania and are tasty and make a great accompaniment as Rice/ chapati stew

It is loaded with vitamins and has an edible taste. Not only does it protect you from diseases, but also improves your hair and skin.

3. Green Grams Dengu Ordinary Moong Mung Beans

Green Grams Dengu Ordinary in India know as Green Mung or Moong Beans is a readily available locally.

However the ordinary dengu is the least popular variety, the reason being the small grain makes sorting of the product a challenge, secondly the grain does not mature evenly resulting in a lot of wastage at household consumption level.

The commodity has become increasing unpopular with customers. However there are customers who grew up with Dengu ordinary and it still remains their all time favorite.

4. Dengu Special Western

Dengu Special, also know as Dengu Western or Uganda is brown grain popular due to its filling and does not cause heartburn or digestive gas in comparison with the ordinary green-gram.

5. Green Grams, Ndengu, Dengu, Pojo (Mung or Moong, Bean) Makueni Uncle Variety

Green Grams, Ndengu, Dengu, Pojo, (Kenya Makueni/Uncle variety), Uganda (Cotton variety) (India – Moong, Mung Bean), bigger grains than ordinary and nylon, the variety with a more dusty look, it is tastier and cooks evenly.

6. Moong Dall or Split Green Grams

Moong Dall, is split green gram, grown locally in Makueni and Matuu, Kenya. The dall is a favourite among the Indians, Somalis, and Arabs.

It is the preferred variety for household consumption and is grown Makueni, Kitui, and Matuu Kenya. Makueni is only found in Kenya, in the East Africa region.

PEAS VARIETIES

Peas are not actually a vegetable but a small, edible legume and as such they belong to the same family as lentils, chickpeas, beans and peanuts. Peas grow in pods on a vine and once the pod is plump, they are ripe for picking.

Below are the various peas varieties you can sell in Kenya.

1. Bahazi Mbaazi Pigeon Peas

Pigeon Peas (Mbaazi, Baazi). A popular alternative to beans, especially when fresh is a cheaper alternative

2. Red Kunde Cow Peas

Red Cow Peas/ cowpeas (Kunde), popular meal when served with rice or ugali. Kindly note the color shade may vary depending on the crop, and harvest location.

3. Dry Green Peas Mijii

Dry Green Peas (Mijii). Dried green peas are a popular meal especially during festive seasons and are a popular alternative to the more expensive fresh beans. Domestic consumption includes Mokimo (Mashed Potatoes and Peas), and vegetable stews.

4. Chick Peas Chania

Chick Pea whole is a favorite among the Indians, Somalis, and Arabs. Chick peas can be added to githeri as a rich source of Potassium. Chick pea tends to take longer to cook, and may require presoaking before cooking.

5. Chana Dall or Split Chick Peas

Chana DAll is split chick peas which the outer skin has been removed, Chania are a favorite among the Indians, Somalis, Kamba, and Arabs.

NUT VARIETIES

A nut is a fruit consisting of a hard or tough nutshell protecting a kernel which is usually edible. In general usage and in a culinary sense, a wide variety of dry seeds are called nuts, but in a botanical context “nut” implies that the shell does not open to release the seed.

Below are the various nut varieties you can sell in Kenya.

1. Njungu Mawe

Njugu Mawe (Swahili), Tsimbade (Luyha), Monkey Nut, Bambara Nut, Okpa (Igbo), Epa-Roro (Yoruba). While a nut, it is regarded as not to be a nut but a legume, and is rich in protein.

Njugu Mawe is a traditional healthy food, that is highly nutritious often cooked with maize (both fresh, dry, or dehusked maize). Health benefits include reducation of anaemia, as it boost the blood cell producation.

2. Njugu Red Kubwa Groundnuts Peanuts

Njugu Red Kubwa (Red Groundnuts), the red nuts are a tasty and popular household snack and breakfast item. The groundnuts sold in the Nairobi market are imported from Malawi

3. Njugu Ndogo Red Small Groundnuts Peanuts

The Red Small Groundnuts are grown mostly in Western Kenya and Meru. Kenya being a high cost producer of groundnut, the small red groundnuts tend to be more expensive than the large groundnuts which are imported from Malawi into Kenya.

The high price of the small red groundnut has resulted in less demand for the commodity, while an all time favorite with many Kenyans, the commodity tends to be very season and often difficult to find in many leading Kenyan markets.

4. Njugu White Kubwa Brown

Njugu White Kubwa (White Big Groundnuts), the white nuts are favored over the red, due to their lower fat content. Nuts are a popular household snack and breakfast item. And a good source of magnesium.

5. Njugu White, Ndogo, Small White Groundnuts, Peanuts, Karaga

Grown in Western Kenya, and Meru the nuts are actually brown, but the street names in most Africa Markets is White.

The small white groundnuts are favored over the red, due to their lower fat content. Especially with health conscious individual who are reducing their fat intake.

The less fat content certainly gives them a different flavor from the red groundnuts, or peanuts. Nuts are a popular household snack and breakfast item.

If you find yourself craving chocolate, try some roasted peanuts, or groundnuts. Do not be surprised if the craving disappears, it usually is your body asking for some magnesium. Kindly Note the Small Groundnuts are highly season.

6. Cashew Nuts Korosho

Cashew Nuts are an awesome source of healthy fats such as oleic and palmitoleic acids which are fatty acids that are associated with lowering the levels of unhealthy cholesterol and increasing the levels of healthy cholesterol, therefore decreasing the risk of heart diseases.

Cashews are also rich in proteins, can boost your immune systems and are an excellent source of antioxidants.

7. Coconut Desiccated Nazi

Desiccated Coconut (Nazi) is fully dried flaked coconut that can be used the same way you shredded coconut, as an ingredient in savory and sweet recipes. It can also be eaten as a snack

or as an addition in making sweets, flavoring rice, beans, or other cakes. The item is very popular in many non-coastal cities, as a substitute for freshly shredded coconut.

MILLED FLOUR VARIETIES

Think of it as flour milled the old-fashioned way. The process grinds the entire grain (including the oil-and-nutrient-filled germ and bran), which some say makes stone-milled flour more nutritious compared to the commercially produced stuff (which is ground into flour after the hard bran and germ is removed).

Below are the various milled flour varieties you can sell in Kenya.

1. Thafai, Thabai, Stinging Nettle Flour

Thafai, Thabai, (Stinging Nettle) flour, comes highly recommended as a alternative to tea leaves. Nutritional benefits include reduced allergies, antioxidants, anti flammatory, anti-microbial, and anti cancer cell activities.

Domestic consumption in addition to tea includes Mokimo (mashed potatoes and maize meal).

2. Mabuyu (Baobab Tree Fruit) Flour

Mabuyu (Baobab) Fruit Powder or Flour. Mabuyu flour in addition to being used in making one of the most popular snack/treat “Mabuyu” in Nairobi and Mombasa, the flour can also be used in as an additional ingredient in porridge.

3. Terere Amaranth Flour

Terere / Amaranth Flour is a good source of manganese, magnesium, phosphorus and iron. It is very popular as a porridge blend especially for child for brain function and protection against neurological conditions. Amaranth helps the body in producing blood.

4. Njugu Mtama (Groundnuts & Sorghum) Flour

Njugu Mtama (Groundnut Milled with Sorghum) flour, is used for making porridge for children, and is rich in Magnesium. Sorghum is rich in unsaturated fats, protein, fiber, and minerals like phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and iron.

5. Rice Flour Unga wa Mchele

Rice Flour (Unga wa Mchele) flour, is made from ground raw rice and is used to make Vitumbua or Mahamri (Swahili Pastries). Rice flour is also used to wean babies after 6 months. Rice flour can also be used to thicken soups and stews, and can be an alternative to wheat flour in cakes and biscuits. Rice flour is gluten free therefore cannot be used to make yeasted loaves of bread.

6. Omena na Mtama (Sardine Fish & Sorghum) Flour

Omena (Sardine fish milled with Red Sorghum Grain) flour, Unga Wasamaki (Swahili) is mostly popular in porridge especially as a rich source of calcium for children, and an excellent traditional Africa way of ensuring small children sufficient Omega 3 intake

7. Mawele Pearl Millet

Mawele (Pearl Millet), Uwele TZ), Pearl Millet, flour a light green flour also used for making porridge, and popularly used as a fermentation agent in making porride (uji). *Other names include fermented flour, unga yakuchacha or yakugandica etc.

Mawele can also be combined with whole maize flour in making Ugali, or corn bread. The luhya community used mawele, sorghum, and cassava to make a very healthy high fiber Ugali. The combination is becoming increasing popular as an addition to sifted maize flour.

8. Soya Flour

Soya flour comes highly recommended especially for porridge. Soya is very high in protein, and it’s recommended when used in making uji, that its porridge be cooked for an additional 20mins, due to the high protein content in soya

9. Baridi (Extra Fine Maize Meal)

Baridi is extra fine white maize meal flour. Baridi is referred to as Kisra by Sudanese for making Kisra. In Uganda and Rwanda it is know as Kaunga. Baridi is used to make Uji (porridge) and Kisra (chapatti, pancake) by Sudanese. Baridi flour cannot be used to make Ugali, because it will not cake.

10. Cassava Chips

Muhogo (Cassava) Chips are increasing becoming very popular for those customers who prefer to select different grains, and flour products in order to make their individual preferred blend of porridge. Cassava chips are milled with sorghum and figure millet. It is very popular in Western Kenya and DRC Congo.

11. Cassava Muhogo Flour

Most of it is shipped from the Ethiopian community in Australia.

12. Fermented Muhogo Cassava Chips

Fermented Muhogo (Cassava) Chips are increasing becoming very popular for those customers who prefer to select different grains, and flour products in order to make their individual preferred blend of porridge.

Cassava chips are milled with sorghum and finger millet. It is very popular with people from Western Kenya and DRC Congo. The fermented cassava chips are used when making blending enrich the porridge with a tangy sour taste.

13. Ugali Sifted Grade 1 & 2

White Maize Meal (Ugali) flour is mostly used for making ugali (cornbread), and comes in two types of grades. Grade 1 (Sifted) in which the husks are first removed then the maize is milled.

Grade 2 the maize is milled whole. This means that Grade 2 maize meal is high in fiber, and is the preferred healthy

14. Sour Flour (Millet, Cassava, Sorghum, Citric Acid)

Sour (Lemon, Millet, Sorghum, Cassava) flour mixed with acetic acid for a sour taste, is mostly popular with primary and secondary schools as it provides a healthier and cheaper porridge. Other names include fermented flour, unga imechacha, Kuchacha, kuganda etc.

15. Mtama (Red Sorghum) Flour

Mtama (Sorghum) Flour mostly used for breakfast porridge, there are two types of sorghum flour, red and white (gardam) sorghum flour. Sorghum flour can also be mixed with unshifted whole meal maize flour to add fiber in ugali for diabetic and high blood pressure patients.

Mtama, Mawele, and Millet is also a very popular traditional combination for Ugali in Western Kenya.

MAIZE VARIETIES

It is a good business venture because the demand is always high and supply is limited many times. This is a crystal clear fact that you are always assured of the market.

So, get an assured supplier. It’s best if you went to the farmers directly. Use an expert to get the best maize with least moisture content (buyers will always measure that)

Once you have supplies, get into the market. Here, go for millers and direct consumers like schools, NGOs, domestics online (especially Jiji.co.ke).

At all costs, avoid brokers because you will get conned. Sell at a profit and repeat the cycle.

Below are the various maize varieties you can sell in Kenya.

1. Flour corn

Flour corn (Zea mays var. amylacea) is a variety of corn with a soft starchy endosperm and a thin pericarp. It is primarily used to make corn flour.

2. Dent corn

Dent corn, also known as grain corn, is a type of field corn with a high soft starch content. It received its name because of the small indentation, or “dent”, at the crown of each kernel on a ripe ear of corn.

3. Flint corn

Flint corn is a variant of maize, the same species as common corn. Because each kernel has a hard outer layer to protect the soft endosperm, it is likened to being hard as flint; hence the name.

4. Sweet corn

Sweet corn, also called sugar corn and pole corn, is a variety of maize grown for human consumption with a high sugar content. Sweet corn is the result of a naturally occurring recessive mutation in the genes which control conversion of sugar to starch inside the endosperm of the corn kernel.

5. Popcorn

Popcorn is a variety of corn kernel which expands and puffs up when heated; the same names also refer to the foodstuff produced by the expansion. A popcorn kernel’s strong hull contains the seed’s hard, starchy shell endosperm with 14–20% moisture, which turns to steam as the kernel is heated.

6. Waxy corn

Waxy corn or glutinous corn is a type of field corn characterized by its sticky texture when cooked as a result of larger amounts of amylopectin.

7. Muthokoi (Dehusked Maize)

Muthokoi (De-husk) Maize, is a popular alternative to regular dried maize. Often cooked with beans, or other legumes.

OTHER CEREAL VARIETIES

For so many years, cereal grains have played a significant part in our lives. It’s our everyday staple, and it makes up almost 50% to 60% of our diet.

Let’s dive into the world of other types of cereal varieties you can sell in Kenya.

1. Barley

Barley is a cereal grain native to Asia that was one of the first grains to get widely cultivated. The main barley growing areas are Naivasha, Molo, Narok, Nakuru and Laikipia.

Due to its lower gluten content, barley only gets used in a limited number of bread recipes. As a result, fewer people consume barley today.

Despite this, the discovery that barley is high in beta-glucan has led to its use in health-promoting food products, particularly foods tailored to cardiovascular health.

Its health benefits include the following:

*It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial plant compounds.

*It contains lignans, a group of antioxidants linked to a lower risk of cancer and heart disease.

*It can boost your intestinal health.

*Beta-glucans may help lower your cholesterol levels.

2. Wheat

Wheat is the most widely grown cereal crop on the planet. It has become a popular grain due to the variety of culinary applications it offers. Wheat grain comes in several variations. Other wheat varieties besides bread wheat and durum include spelt, emmer, einkorn, and kamut.

Areas where wheat is grown in Kenya include Narok, Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Trans Nzoia, as well as Nanyuki. Narok is the leading area of production, followed by Nanyuki. The planting season starts from February to early April, during the long rains. Highland wheat (and Barley) is grown in Mau Narok and Uasin Gishu.

Its nutritional and health benefits include the following:

*Low in fat, with the majority of it unsaturated.

*Potassium-rich and sodium-free.

*Thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), folate, and pantothenic acid are all B-group vitamins.

*Iron, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, and selenium are all present.

*High in carbohydrate (primarily starch) and insoluble dietary fiber.

*It may help reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels and improving insulin secretion.

3. Oats

Because oats’ bran and germ seldom get removed during processing, most food items containing the words ‘oats,’ ‘oat flour,’ or ‘oatmeal’ comprise whole grain oats. Oats are naturally high in beta-glucan, a soluble fiber found in the oat grain’s bran and endosperm layer.

The health benefits of oats include:

*Beta-glucan present in oats improves blood sugar control after meals.

*Oats also increase insulin responses.

*Oats help decrease cholesterol levels.

*Avenanthramides present in oats help protect blood vessels from the damaging effects of LDL cholesterol.

Oats are typically rolled or crushed before being consumed as oatmeal or porridge. Because oats are whole grains, they are high in fiber and essential nutrients. Oatmeal is versatile, and you can prepare it in a variety of ways.

You can either boil it with water or milk before being topped with fresh fruit, cinnamon, or nuts. You can also make “overnight” oats. You can soak them in milk or yogurt for several hours and are ready to eat for breakfast.

4. Sorghum

Jowar, also known as sorghum in English, is widely regarded as the “new quinoa” due to its gluten-free, whole grain goodness. The ancient grain, a member of the millet family, is experiencing a revival as people move away from refined wheat products, which are not considered healthy. Because of its high nutrient content, jowar is a desirable grain for good health.

Sorghum in Kenya is grown in western, northern Rift Valley, eastern, and some parts of Central.

Here are some of the health benefits of jowar or sorghum:

*The 3-Deoxyanthoxyanins (3-DXA) present in jowar may inhibit cancer tumor growth.

*It can protect against the risk of diabetes and insulin resistance.

*It is safe for people with celiac disease.

*It can help manage cholesterol levels.

*The high levels of manganese in jowar help maintain calcium levels in your body as manganese increases calcium absorption.

4. Millet (mtama)

Millets are small, round-shaped coarse grains that are native to India and have an impressive nutrient profile. It is a drought and pest-resistant crop that can thrive in harsh climates and poor soil.

All millet varieties are members of the Poaceae family, but they differ in color, appearance, and species.

Millets come in several variations, including ragi, foxtail millet, pearl millet finger millets, proso millets, little millets, Kodo millets, and barnyard millets. All of these grains have one thing in common: they are high in nutrition.

Finger millet is in high demand in Kenya. It is good for infant feeding, special dishes for the sick and for special purposes among some people It, therefore, fetches a good price in the market. The crop is mainly grown in Western, Nyanza, Rift Valley Provinces.

Here are some of the health benefits of millets:

*Millets are high in nutrients, gluten-free, and have a low glycemic index which helps in stabilizing the blood sugar levels.

*Millets improve gut health and help you in achieving sustained weight loss.

*Millets contain beta-glucans, flavonoids, anthocyanidins which lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.

*According to research, millets are effective in inhibiting the growth of cancerous cells in various tissues.

*Good dietary fiber in millets helps maintain digestive health and promotes the overall health of other vital organs.

END OF DAY 2 CEREALS BUSINESS TEACHING SESSION

You need to have a storage facility that is near your cereals shop. Also, avoid storing grains on the floor. It is likely they will absorb moisture from the floor. You should get a carpenter who can make for your strong stands to support up to 10 sacks of cereals.

Make sure that all the cereals are dry before storing them. When you get supplies from suppliers, from time to time, make sure to dry them.

Also, put in place measures to keep away rodents like rats that can eat significant stock.

Also, you need to know how to arrange a cereal shop. You need to adopt a professional cereal shop design so that it looks neat and organized.

We now come to the end of today`s teaching session, The PDF of this teaching is available here. Please comment your thoughts and questions below.