- Kenya’s macadamia production value rose 73 per cent to Ksh8.6 billion in 2025.
- Output increased to 53,968 tonnes as macadamia acreage expanded by 849 hectares.
- Government is targeting India as a new export market to diversify Kenya’s macadamia trade
Kenya’s macadamia industry recorded a sharp rise in the value of production last year, as higher farm-gate prices and orchard expansion boosted farmer earnings, new data shows.
Data from the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) shows macadamia output was valued at Ksh 8.6 billion in 2025, a 73 per cent increase from the Ksh 4.95 billion recorded in 2024.
Production also rose during the period, with farmers harvesting 53,968.16 tonnes in 2025, compared with 49,183 tonnes the previous year.
The rise in earnings was largely linked to relatively stable farm-gate prices, although growers experienced fluctuations when supplies became limited towards the end of the season. Prices started the year at between Ksh 70 and Ksh 100 per kilogramme before rising as processing and export activity gained momentum.
By August and September, prices in some producing areas had doubled, with the highest-season prices reaching between Ksh 120 and Ksh 150 per kilogramme in most production zones.
Kenya accounts for about 20 per cent of global macadamia supply, producing approximately 50,000 tonnes annually. The crop is predominantly exported, with about 98 per cent of produce destined for overseas markets.
The United States remains the leading destination for Kenyan macadamia, taking about 35 per cent of exports. Germany, the Netherlands, China and Hong Kong are among the other major markets.
AFA attributed the rise in production to both the expansion of growing areas and improved productivity among farmers. Macadamia acreage rose from 9,336 hectares in 2024 to 10,185 hectares in 2025, an increase of 849 hectares through new orchards and the replanting of existing ones.
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The largest expansion was recorded in parts of the Rift Valley, including Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Trans Nzoia, Elgeyo Marakwet and Baringo. However, the central region, particularly Murang’a, Meru, Embu and Kirinyaga, continues to account for the largest share of the country’s macadamia production.
The regulator said better pest control was among the factors behind improved yields in 2025, as coordinated pest-management measures helped reduce losses while improving nut quality and recovery rates,
Kiambu County, however, recorded a decline in both the area under macadamia and production. Rapid urbanisation, the subdivision of agricultural land and real estate development have converted some farmland into residential and commercial property.
The county has also experienced the ageing of some orchards without replacement at a similar rate, which has contributed to lower production.
The government is now seeking to expand the export market by targeting India, with the aim of reducing dependence on Kenya’s five traditional markets. India is considered a promising market because of its expanding consumer population, growing health awareness and increased affordability following reduced import tariffs.
The expansion of macadamia production and access to new international markets is expected to provide farmers with additional opportunities, as Kenya seeks to strengthen the crop’s contribution to the agricultural economy.
By Jonathan Mwinzi
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