Groundnut Prices Remain Firm Across Kenyan Markets Amid Steady Demand

Groundnut prices across Kenya have stayed largely stable in recent weeks, driven by consistent household demand and a steady flow of supplies from local farmers alongside imports from neighboring Malawi.

According to the latest market figures, retail prices are ranging between 108 shillings and 203 shillings per kilogram, with the exact figure depending on where you’re buying, the quality on offer, and the variety.

On the wholesale side, traders are charging anywhere from 76 shillings to 130 shillings per kilogram, though this too shifts depending on the region.

Nairobi tells a slightly different story. Premium groundnuts in the capital are fetching much higher prices, with some outlets charging as much as 300 shillings per kilogram for top-quality stock.

Wholesale rates in the city average around 280 shillings per kilogram, a reflection of the appetite among both retailers and processors for good-quality supply.

Data from the Kenya Agricultural Marketing Information System (KAMIS) shows just how much prices can swing from one county to the next.

A mix of factors, production volumes, transport costs, and how much stock is available at a given time of year, all play a role in what shoppers eventually pay. Unsurprisingly, areas near production zones tend to see cheaper prices, while urban centres, where transport and handling add to the cost, see the numbers climb.

It’s easy to see why groundnuts remain a favourite in Kenyan households. Beyond their nutritional benefits, they’re incredibly versatile, eaten roasted as a snack, boiled, ground into peanut butter, or folded into traditional dishes across the country.

Traders say that even with prices sitting on the higher side, demand hasn’t slowed down. Households, snack vendors and food processors continue to buy consistently.

Still, industry players point out that Kenya isn’t fully self-sufficient when it comes to groundnuts, and imports remain necessary to fill the gap whenever local production falls short.

Agricultural experts are urging farmers to seize the moment. Better post-harvest handling and higher quality standards, they say, could help farmers tap into premium markets and command better prices for their produce.

Looking ahead, demand for groundnuts is expected to hold firm in the coming months. That likely means consumers will keep paying a premium for quality stock, even as farmers and traders continue to benefit from a market that, for now, remains stable.

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