Investment

From Kenya Orchards to AMAC: A Bold Transformation And A New Strategic Acquisition

BY Steve Biko Wafula · March 21, 2025 08:03 pm

KEY POINTS

AMAC has now secured regulatory approval for the acquisition of 1,828,460 of its shares—representing 14.21% of its issued shares—from Hansa Dinesh Chandra Shah to Gulf Africa Innovations Ltd (GAI).

In 2024, Africa Mega AgriCorp PLC (AMAC) emerged as a key player in Kenya’s agribusiness sector with its acquisition of Kenya Orchards Ltd (KOL), a long-established processor of canned and bottled fruit and vegetable products. The transaction, which saw AMAC take over 84.42% of KOL’s issued shares, was a strategic move to consolidate and expand its agro-processing footprint.

This acquisition marked a significant turning point for AMAC. With a fresh vision, the company sought to integrate technology into agricultural supply chains, streamline distribution, and create a scalable model for both local and global markets. Under AMAC, the former Kenya Orchards transformed, adopting modern agritech solutions and rebranding itself as a competitive entity in the evolving agricultural landscape.

Barely a year later, another major shift has taken place. AMAC has now secured regulatory approval for the acquisition of 1,828,460 of its shares—representing 14.21% of its issued shares—from Hansa Dinesh Chandra Shah to Gulf Africa Innovations Ltd (GAI). This latest development signifies a deeper integration of technology-driven agricultural solutions into AMAC’s operations, as GAI brings advanced business process outsourcing capabilities that will shape the future of the company.

GAI’s entry into AMAC’s shareholder structure signals a pivotal shift in the firm’s trajectory. With GAI’s expertise in agritech and supply chain optimization, AMAC aims to strengthen its position as a leading agribusiness platform in Kenya and the broader East African region. The synergy between AMAC’s existing infrastructure and GAI’s digital solutions is expected to enhance efficiency, ensuring a seamless link between farmers and buyers in both local and global markets.

The impact of this transaction extends beyond corporate boardrooms. Farmers who rely on AMAC’s platform are expected to benefit from improved access to off-take markets and more efficient payment solutions facilitated by affiliated commercial banks. The company’s strategic link to the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) further enhances its global distribution capabilities, opening up new opportunities for Kenyan agricultural exports.

As AMAC transitions through this new phase, shareholders and investors are encouraged to take note of the evolving dynamics. The firm’s journey from Kenya Orchards to a modern agribusiness powerhouse reflects the broader shifts happening within Kenya’s agricultural sector. This latest acquisition underscores the importance of technology and global market integration in shaping the future of agribusiness in the region.

About Steve Biko Wafula

Steve Biko is the CEO OF Soko Directory and the founder of Hidalgo Group of Companies. Steve is currently developing his career in law, finance, entrepreneurship and digital consultancy; and has been implementing consultancy assignments for client organizations comprising of trainings besides capacity building in entrepreneurial matters.He can be reached on: +254 20 510 1124 or Email: info@sokodirectory.com