Relief For Farmers As Kenya Reopens Macadamia Harvesting After Survey

By Robai Ludenyi

Kenya’s macadamia nut industry has received a major boost after the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) officially lifted the harvesting and marketing ban that had been in place for months. The decision follows a nationwide crop maturity survey that confirmed the nuts are now ready for harvest, easing anxiety among farmers, traders, and exporters who depend on the high-value crop for their livelihoods.

For many small-scale farmers, the ban had been a tough waiting game. Macadamia is one of Kenya’s most lucrative agricultural exports, bringing in billions of shillings each year and supporting tens of thousands of rural households. When harvesting was stopped, cash flows dried up, debts piled up, and families were forced to delay school fees, farm improvements, and other daily needs. The lifting of the ban, effective from February 1, comes as a relief and a chance to get back on their feet.

According to AFA, the decision was guided by science rather than pressure. The authority conducted field inspections and maturity assessments across key growing regions to determine whether the nuts met the required quality standards. Immature macadamia, which has been a long-standing problem in the sector, often fetches lower prices on the international market and damages Kenya’s reputation with global buyers. By waiting until the crop was ready, regulators say they are protecting both farmers’ incomes and the country’s export brand.

Exporters have also welcomed the move, saying it restores confidence in supply planning and international contracts. With global demand for nuts continuing to rise, driven by health-conscious consumers and plant-based diets, Kenya stands to benefit if quality is maintained. Several processors say they are now preparing factories, logistics, and labour in anticipation of increased volumes in the coming weeks.

Still, the reopening comes with a clear warning: rules will be enforced. AFA has reminded farmers, brokers, and exporters to comply with licensing requirements and quality standards. Those found harvesting immature nuts or trading illegally risk penalties, including fines and loss of licenses. The authority says stricter oversight is necessary to prevent a repeat of past problems that hurt prices and farmer earnings.

For the wider economy, the timing is significant. Agricultural exports remain a key source of foreign exchange, and macadamia is one of the fastest-growing contributors. As harvesting resumes, money is expected to flow back into rural areas, supporting local businesses, transporters, and processors.

Read Also: MACNUT Advocates for the Sustainability of the Macadamia Sector Amidst Challenges from Unprocessed Nut Exports