Pally Muthathai To Chair New MACNUT Board as Association Eyes Expansion into US, Europe and China Markets

Macadamia Association of Kenya (MACNUT) has elected a new board following its Annual General Meeting held on February 27, 2026, marking a new chapter for the organisation at a time when Kenya’s macadamia industry is navigating shifting export dynamics and calls for stronger farmer support.

The newly elected board will be chaired by Pally Muthathai, alongside Bernard Sitati as Treasurer, Lisa Muriuki as Secretary, and Joel Kobia and Amir Yusuf as Directors.

Speaking on behalf of the board, Chairperson Pally Muthathai said the association will prioritise deeper collaboration across the value chain, including closer engagement with government institutions and regulators.

“We look forward to working closely with all stakeholders across the macadamia value chain, including the relevant ministries and government authorities. We are grateful for the support that has been accorded to us so far, and we are committed to deepening these engagements for the benefit of the entire industry,” said Muthathai.

The new board said the welfare of farmers will remain central to its agenda, with a focus on expanding market opportunities in the US, Europe and China. Kenya is among the world’s leading producers of macadamia nuts, with the crop becoming a key cash earner for more than 200,000 Kenyans in the domestic value chain.

“Our farmers are the backbone of this industry. We will ensure macadamia farmers receive fair value for their produce and have access to the right knowledge and support is our top priority,” added Muthathai.

As part of this effort, the board plans to strengthen technical support for farmers through training and extension services focused on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP). The initiative aims to help growers improve yields, enhance nut quality and maintain Kenya’s competitiveness in global markets.

“We thank the Interim Committee for guiding the Association during the transition period. Their stewardship has helped maintain engagement with industry stakeholders while laying the groundwork for the new board,” said Muthathai.

The new board reiterated its commitment to strengthening collaboration with public and private-sector actors across the macadamia value chain, including processors, exporters, and farmer organisations.

“The board will serve as the primary point of contact for official communications, partnerships, and sector engagements within the industry as the Association works toward establishing a permanent secretariat,” said Muthathai.

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