The Ministry of Agriculture has announced a four-month ban on macadamia harvesting, starting November 2.
Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Andrew Karanja explained that this decision follows consultations with industry stakeholders.
“The ban will be in effect from November 2, 2024, until March 1, 2025, to prevent the export of immature nuts. Dealers must submit their current stock for inspection and clearance by November 15, 2024,” the CS stated.
Kenya’s macadamia industry is primarily export-driven, with about 95% of its annual production exported to global markets. In 2019, farm gate prices for macadamia nuts reached a peak of Sh180 per kg. However, by early 2023, prices had plummeted to between Sh30 and Sh40 per kg. To address this decline, the ministry lifted the ban on raw macadamia exports under Section 43 of the AFA Act, 2013, allowing for a one-year export window starting November 3, 2023.
“This measure aims to stabilize prices and help farmers manage excess stock affected by global market conditions,” he said.
A recent industry assessment indicated that many local companies struggle with quality stocks for processing and that harvesting and exporting immature nuts negatively impact Kenya’s global market performance.
“Exporting processed macadamia nuts (kernels) is far more advantageous for Kenya than exporting raw in-shell nuts,” Karanja noted.
He also announced the implementation of a minimum guaranteed farm gate price of at least Sh100 per kilogram. The Agriculture and Food Authority will enforce strict compliance with this directive, including the revocation of licenses for violators.
“The authority will enhance inspections and surveillance to eliminate unscrupulous dealers. National and county governments will collaborate to enforce the provisions of the Crops Act, 2013, and the Crops (Nuts and Oil Crops) Regulations, 2020,” Karanja added.
