AFA suspends macadamia harvest and trade until February 2024

KENYA – The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has announced a suspension on the harvesting and trade of domestically produced macadamia nuts until February 15, 2024.

The decision follows a recent phenological survey that showed the nuts have not yet reached full maturity.

Through its Nuts and Oil Crops Directorate, the Authority said the temporary closure will help safeguard farmers from unfair trading practices and ensure better quality nuts in both local and export markets.

“Following the findings of a recent macadamia phenological survey conducted across the production zones, the Authority has established that the main harvesting season for macadamia nuts is yet to commence,” AFA stated in the notice released on November 10, 2023.

The Authority said the closure applies to all players in the macadamia value chain including farmers, processors, exporters, importers, and marketing agents. The enforcement period, running from November 10, 2023, to February 15, 2024, seeks to allow nuts to achieve full kernel maturity and high oil content before they reach the market.

“The Authority further emphasizes that all stakeholders must adhere to the directive to attain full kernel maturity, in-shell macadamia nuts with high oil content, and premium kernel quality,” the notice read.

AFA officials said surveillance teams will carry out routine inspections across key producing zones to ensure full compliance. Anyone found breaching the directive will face action as outlined in the Crops Act of 2013.

Sustaining Kenya’s global reputation

Kenya remains one of the top producers of macadamia nuts in Africa, with exports contributing significantly to the country’s agricultural earnings. However, early harvesting and unregulated trade have in the past led to price drops and complaints over low-quality kernels in international markets.

Industry observers believe the latest directive will help stabilize the market and restore farmer confidence. “Such measures ensure that only mature nuts reach buyers, protecting both farmers and Kenya’s export reputation,” said an agronomist familiar with the macadamia sector.

AFA has also increased efforts to support farmers through awareness programs and stricter monitoring of licensed processors. The Authority says this approach will promote fairness and transparency across the entire value chain.

In a related update, the Authority recently announced plans to review licensing requirements for exporters and strengthen inspection protocols for imported nuts to align with global food safety standards.

“The Authority shall conduct inspection and surveillance activities to ensure compliance. Any person found in contravention of the closure period shall be dealt with in accordance with the Crops Act 2013,” the statement concluded.

The notice signals a stricter stance from AFA as it works to improve the quality and competitiveness of Kenyan macadamia in global markets.

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