Naivasha Horticultural Fair – Business in harmony with CSR

The 2016 Naivasha Horticultural Fair is set to be held on 23rd - 24th Septemeber. The show now on it's 14th edition has grown to become one of the continent’s most reputable and fastest growing showcasing for horticulture. This year's edition comes at a time when Kenya’s horticulture & floriculture industry is adjusting to various past, existing and imminent challenges that are sure to shape its performance in the last quarter.

The NH Fair enjoys a string of uniquenesses that make it different from most other expos. Business and networking among players in the industry remains the focal point with the 2015 show attracting quite a number of exhibitors, nearly 200 drawn from various segments of the industry; including Breeders, Suppliers to the industry and Growers.  The setting is open air and has a very relaxed flair about it; complimented by live music, drinks and dining areas.  A kiddie’s play area is set aside to give the show a ‘family day out’ ambiance.

One very unique aspect is that all profits accrued from the annual event goes towards supporting charity causes. These charities also form part of the fair each year and offer visitors an opportunity to see how the monies are being utilized. NHFAIR Trust in-line with their motto ‘building better lives’ supports charities geared towards poverty alleviation and improving the lives of women and children especially. The charities include: Naivasha Safe House (for abused women and children), the Naivasha Children’s Shelter, NACOHAG (HIV/AIDS and family health), Karagita Maternity Hospital, Naivasha General Hospital Maternity Wing (reduction of maternal and infant mortality), United Disabled Persons of Naivasha, KSPCA, and The Rotary Club.

With a foot-fall of more than 3,500 visitors, last year’s NH Fair attracted a notable number of suppliers to the industry especially manufacturers and distributors of agro-chemical products as well as farm inputs, machinery and other accessories.

Although rising costs on factors such as labour, taxes, energy, airfreight and input cannot be said to be a uniquely Kenyan reality, the NH Fair is a reflection of what the industry is currently embracing. Which are efficiency improvement, innovation and sustainability.