Lactone Investments Ltd

Lactone Investments Ltd is a leading agrifood SME based in Western Kenya. The company focuses on climate-smart cassava and sorghum farming. It helps smallholder farmers increase yields, access markets, and adapt to climate change. Across Sub-Saharan Africa, over 500 million people rely on cassava as a staple. Therefore, Lactone’s work directly supports food security and rural livelihoods.

The company operates on five key pillars. First, it builds a reliable cassava seed system. Second, it links farmers to markets for better income. Third, it improves access to farm mechanization. Fourth, it promotes climate-smart agricultural practices. Finally, it empowers women farmers through inclusive programs. Currently, Lactone works with 700 farmers in Homa Bay, supplying early-maturing, disease-free seeds such as Selina, Mwavuli, Umoja, and MM95/0183. The company plans to reach over 20,000 farmers by 2028.

Founded by Lucas Olewe, Lactone Investments combines hands-on farming with strategic leadership. The company has restored cassava production in areas affected by Mosaic and Brown Streak Diseases. In addition, it provides training, seed-bulking, and market access, helping farmers recover lost harvests and improve incomes.

By integrating technology, climate-smart methods, and market linkages, Lactone Investments strengthens rural communities and builds resilience. The company aims to create a thriving agricultural ecosystem in Western Kenya. This ecosystem enables farmers to sustainably increase profits, reduce post-harvest losses, and adapt to climate change.