This archive report was first published on 13 December 2019.
Avocado farming in Murang'a County has become a model for success, with small-scale farmers reaping the rewards of a well-organized and lucrative industry.
Last weekend, I attended a field day at an avocado and macadamia nut farm owned by Kakuzi PLC near the rapidly growing Kenol township in Murang'a County. The event was a celebration of the county's innovative approach to agriculture, which has led to significant benefits for small-scale farmers.
The county's decision to allow farmers to sell their produce directly to multinational firms has been a game-changer. Instead of being exploited by middlemen, farmers are now earning healthy bonuses and selling their produce at a fair price.
According to Murang'a Governor Mwangi wa Iria, the county's assembly is considering a new rule to set the time for the start of the picking season. This move aims to prevent exporters from delivering immature or diseased fruits, which has hurt the export market and farmers' pockets in the past.
However, the county's success in avocado farming is not without its challenges. The Chinese market, which is potentially the largest market for Kenyan avocados, has imposed stringent conditions on exports. The conditions require that avocados be sliced and frozen before being shipped in cold-rooms, which has proved to be a huge burden for farmers.
Despite these challenges, Murang'a County's innovative approach to avocado farming has set a precedent for other counties to follow. The county's leadership has shown that with the right policies and support, small-scale farmers can thrive and contribute to the country's food security.
