This archive report was first published on 19 May 2020.
Kenya's horticulture sector is facing a significant challenge as heavy rainfall and diseases have slowed down production, leading to a 20-30% drop in exports to the European market.
According to Ojepat Okesegere, the chief executive of the Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC), the sector is expected to recover in the next month with the arrival of a new crop.
Europe, which is Kenya's main market, has been easing restrictions as it opens up the economy following months of lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus.
"The shortage is as a result of a number of things that include too much rain, transitioning of the crops from the old to the new one and a lack of motivation as farmers relaxed when their orders were cancelled during the Covid-19 lockdowns," Mr Okesegere said.
Despite the challenges, the demand for Kenya's horticulture produce in Europe has increased, leading to a resumption of orders.
However, the flower business is still low following the closure of the auction in Amsterdam, with orders only picking up last weekend as the world celebrated Mothers' Day.
The increase in demand has also led to an increase in the number of international airlines at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), with British Airways and Singapore Airlines recently resuming flights.
Freighters are currently charging between $2.8 and $3.5 per kilo, which is higher than the usual rate of about $1 per kilo.
