Kenya to host Global Avocado Summit as industry eyes expanded markets

Avocado Society of Kenya CEO Ernest Muthomi

Kenya will host the sixth edition of Avocado Africa 2026, a major international summit that is expected to draw leading players in the global fruits and vegetables industry.

The four‑day conference, scheduled for May 26–29 at the Sarit Expo Centre in Nairobi, will bring together farmers, exporters, investors, policymakers, researchers, development partners and agribusiness leaders from Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas.

Speaking ahead of the event, Avocado Society of Kenya CEO Ernest Muthomi said the summit is designed to strengthen Africa’s position in the global fresh produce market by promoting trade, innovation and sustainable agricultural practices. He noted that the gathering will provide a platform for stakeholders to explore opportunities in the rapidly growing avocado sector as well as other horticultural products.

The programme will feature high‑level conferences, technical workshops, panel discussions and business‑to‑business networking sessions. Topics will range from trade expansion and sustainable production to value addition, financing and access to international markets.

“Avocado Africa 2026 is more than an exhibition. It is a gateway for trade, innovation and investment across the avocado value chain because Africa has a unique opportunity to strengthen its position as a global supplier of high‑quality fresh produce,”

Avocado Society of Kenya CEO Ernest Muthomi

Kenya remains one of Africa’s leading avocado exporters, with the crop emerging as a major foreign exchange earner amid rising global demand. The country has continued to expand its export markets while attracting increased investment in agribusiness and value addition.

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The summit comes at a time when African countries are seeking to boost agricultural exports and reinforce food systems in the face of shifting global trade dynamics. Participants are expected to deliberate on emerging trends in horticulture, including climate‑smart agriculture, quality compliance, logistics, market diversification and post‑harvest handling.

Organizers say the event will also provide smallholder farmers and local exporters with a rare opportunity to connect directly with international buyers and investors, opening doors to new markets. Muthomi urged stakeholders across the value chain to seize the chance to build partnerships and explore fresh opportunities.

He emphasized that the conference will showcase Africa’s potential in horticulture while highlighting the importance of sustainable farming and value addition in raising farmer incomes and driving economic growth.

“The avocado industry continues to create jobs and improve livelihoods for thousands of farmers across Kenya and the continent. This conference will help unlock more opportunities for growth and investment,” he said.

The Avocado Society of Kenya has been at the forefront of championing quality standards, compliance, market access and sustainable growth in the avocado industry. Over the years, it has worked closely with farmers, exporters and government agencies to promote best practices and strengthen Kenya’s competitiveness in the global market.

By John Majau

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