Declining coconut sales force Mombasa vendors to adapt to changing market

Mombasa's traditional coconut vendors are facing a tough time as changing lifestyles lead to a decline in sales.

Many locals are choosing the convenience of store-bought coconut milk over buying whole coconuts due to the hassle of grating and filtering.

Amina Jumwa, a 47-year-old coconut vendor from Mackinnon Market, also known as Marikiti, is one of those feeling the impact.

Jumwa, who started her business nine years ago after her husband passed away, has seen a noticeable drop in her sales.

With five children in primary school, she turned to selling coconuts to support her family. Initially, her business thrived, earning her around Sh3,500 per day. However, the shift to commercial coconut milk has significantly affected her income.

"Business was great at first," Jumwa recalls. "But now, I sometimes go an entire day without selling a single coconut. Nowadays, women work long hours and do not have time to prepare meals from scratch. They prefer the convenience of ready-made coconut milk," she explained.

Jumwa has adapted to these changing demands by introducing new products. She now sells coconut chips and freshly made coconut milk, hoping to attract more customers.

Her new products are priced affordably, with a one-litre bottle of coconut milk costing Sh150 and coconut chips costing Sh30.

Amina Jumwa adapted to declining coconut sales by selling coconut chips and freshly made coconut milk. (Photo: Mishi Gongo)

She says she mostly targets bachelors and working women who have less time to prepare meals from scratch.

Faiza Abdul, a regular customer, appreciates the change.

"Mama has made it easier for us to get quality coconut milk. We had to rely on commercial products with preservatives before, which aren't as good. Now, I can buy coconut chips or milk depending on how busy I am," she said.

Another customer, Mahfuz Jumaan, claims she has been buying Mama Jumwa's products for more than six months.

"When I miss coconut rice or soup, I just purchase the ready-made milk and cook it at home. I no longer have to eat at restaurants. This way, I am able to save money," he said.

The market for coconuts in Mombasa has traditionally been robust, with the fruit used in a variety of coastal dishes such as rice, soup, greens, beans, cassava, and potatoes.

Despite the decline in whole coconut sales, Jumwa's new products are helping to keep her business afloat.

Jumwa's innovative approach reflects the broader trend among vendors adapting to modern consumer preferences.