Barka Fund backs Kenyan macadamia exporter
Abidjan-based Barka Fund has invested $1 million in Kenyan macadamia exporter Orient Enterprises.
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Abidjan-based climate-focused impact investment vehicle Barka Fund has invested $1 million in Kenyan macadamia exporter Orient Enterprises.
Founded and led by Rajiv Pandya, Orient Enterprises is a Kenyan macadamia processor and exporter operating a facility in Juja, Kiambu County. The company produces vacuum-packed raw macadamia kernels, macadamia oil, and flavoured macadamia kernels under its Orient Chef brand. It supplies local retailers and premium export markets across Europe, North America, and Asia.
Sourcing from a growing network of smallholder farmers, Orient generated $1.2 million in revenue in 2025.
Barka Fund’s investment – comprising $500,000 in preferred equity and a $500,000 structured working capital loan – will fund infrastructure upgrades, working capital, and agroforestry expansion.
The investment integrates tree planting and land restoration directly into Orient’s sourcing model.
“This partnership strengthens our ability to serve global markets while investing directly in the farmers and land behind our business,” said Rajiv Pandya, founder and CEO of Orient Enterprises. “We are building a Kenyan export brand that is both globally competitive and rooted in sustainable agriculture.”
“We are investors who love preparing founders before we invest. Rajiv went through our readiness programme, and it was clear Orient reflects the future we believe in – African agribusinesses driving growth, inclusion, and restoration, all at once,” commented Rekia Foudel, managing partner of Barka Fund.
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