The Elgon Collection rose farm is one of the oldest horticultural businesses in Kenya and is located in this eponymous area. Founded in 1920 by a Swedish botanist, over the years the farm has grown a variety of products such as coffee, avocados, apples, and peaches.
Rose production only began in 1993, and over the next 20 years, the farm developed into a place where one of the largest rose collections in Africa is grown for export worldwide. Thanks to the cool climate, the area is the perfect place to cultivate roses. With more than 900 employees from both Uganda and Kenya, The Elgon Collection is the largest employer in the region.
Mount Elgon Trust
Due to the growth and success of the rose farm, the owners, Bob Andersen (the grandson of the Swedish botanist who once started the farm here) and his wife Bea Andersen-Schipper, decided to establish a trust in 2006. The trust aims to stimulate the Mt. Elgon area in terms of medical improvements, education, and social development.
Basic facilities such as a small school and hospital were the first steps, but today the area has grown to include several primary schools, a secondary school, and a technical university that offer the families in the area great opportunities for positive development. In addition, social amenities such as a clubhouse are available, and a large running track is being built. In this way, the trust aims to give back to the community and build a sustainable and strong community.
