Del Monte Kenya marks 60 years, unveils Sh100bn economic impact report

Del Monte managing director Wayne Cook speaking during the Del Monte Kenya Impact study launch report at Serena hotel, Nairobi on May 5, 2026/LEAH MUKANGAI

Del Monte Kenya has marked 60 years of operations in the country with the launch of a detailed socio-economic impact report outlining its contribution to employment, agricultural development, exports and environmental sustainability.

The report, unveiled on Tuesday in Nairobi, traces the company’s journey from a modest pineapple processing operation in 1965 to one of Kenya’s largest agribusiness exporters and employers.

Over the past 20 years, the study shows the company has contributed more than Sh100 billion to Kenya’s GDP while supporting nearly 20,000 jobs across direct employment, suppliers and the wider value chain.

Managing Director Wayne Cook said the findings reflect a long-term investment in Kenya’s economy and people.

“Sixty years ago, the ground on which Del Monte Kenya sits was just land. Today, it has been transformed into a source of sustainable livelihoods for thousands of Kenyan families,” Wayne said.

He added that the company’s early decision to invest in plantation-based production shaped its growth trajectory.

“That strategic decision gave us greater control over product quality and supply, allowing us to expand both locally and globally,” Wayne said.

The report, which was developed under the guidance of founder and principal consultant Kamau Wairuri, brings together economic, social and environmental data drawn from company records, government statistics and independent analysis.

Kamau said the study was designed to provide a clearer picture of the company’s long-term footprint in Kenya’s economy and communities.

The findings show that Del Monte Kenya directly employs an average of 6,290 workers, with thousands more supported indirectly through suppliers, contractors and associated services.

The company estimates that for every one direct job, two additional jobs are created elsewhere in the economy.

Wayne said the workforce remains central to the company’s performance.

“We pay wages that are on average 31 per cent above the agricultural sector, and we continue to invest in improving productivity and worker welfare,” he said.

Lotus consulting founder and principal consultant Kamau Wairuri and Del Monte managing director Wayne Cook during the Del Monte Kenya Impact study launch report at Serena hotel, Nairobi on May 5, 2026/LEAH MUKANGAI

On fiscal contributions, the report indicates that Del Monte Kenya has paid about Sh8.5 billion in taxes since 2017, including corporate tax, social security contributions and county levies.

The company also exports over 100 million US dollars worth of agricultural products annually, making it one of Kenya’s key contributors to foreign exchange earnings in the agricultural sector.

Wayne said the export strength reflects Kenya’s competitiveness in global markets.

“Our operations play a significant role in strengthening Kenya’s export profile and supporting national economic growth,” he said.

Beyond economic impact, the report highlights the company’s investments in health, education and community development.

These include medical camps reaching thousands of people, contributions to local health facilities and education support programmes benefiting more than 12,000 learners.

Wayne said these initiatives are part of the company’s broader social responsibility.

“We recognise that our success is tied to the well-being of the communities around us. That is why we continue to invest in health, education and social infrastructure,” he said.

The report also details sustainability initiatives such as bio-fertiliser production from pineapple waste, solar energy investments and water-efficient irrigation systems.

Wayne said sustainability is now integrated into core operations.

“We are building a business that is more efficient, more responsible and more sustainable. That includes turning waste into value and investing in cleaner energy systems,” he said.

He also acknowledged past challenges, noting that the company has strengthened governance and accountability systems over time.

As the company marks six decades in Kenya, Wayne said the focus is now on the future.

“This report is not just about what we have achieved. It is about where we are going. We remain committed to creating long-term value for Kenya and for future generations,” he said.