Flamingo Horticulture starts US$14M expansion in Naivasha, signals strong investor confidence

KENYA – Flamingo Horticulture Kenya Ltd officially started its expansion project in Naivasha on 21 January 2026, marking a key moment for Kenya’s horticulture industry and private investment in agriculture.

Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Mutahi Kagwe, led the ceremony alongside Abubakar Hassan, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Investment Promotion. The event brought together government officials, trade representatives, and industry leaders, showing strong cooperation between the public and private sectors.

The expansion, valued at US$14 million (US$14 million), aims to grow production capacity and create more jobs. Flamingo Flowers expects the project to generate about 2,000 new jobs, adding to the company’s workforce and supporting local communities around Naivasha.

Government support and export focus

During the event, Kagwe spoke about the government’s commitment to the horticulture sector. He said the government would speed up VAT refunds for exporters and improve market access for Kenyan produce.

“We will work closely with exporters to ensure timely VAT refunds and open more markets for Kenyan products,” Kagwe said.

Officials noted that horticulture remains one of Kenya’s top foreign exchange earners, with flowers, fruits, and vegetables forming a large share of exports. The sector also supports thousands of jobs across farms, logistics, and related services.

Kenya–UK trade ties

The ceremony also highlighted strong trade links between Kenya and the United Kingdom. Among the guests were Ed Barnett, Acting British High Commissioner to Kenya, and John Humphrey, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Africa. Representatives from the British Chamber of Commerce also attended.

In a statement shared by the British High Commission, the expansion was described as part of a wider effort to deepen trade relations between the two countries.

“Sustainable flower farming creates jobs and strengthens Kenya’s export competitiveness,” the statement said. “This supports our ambition to double Kenya–UK trade by 2030.”

The Fresh Produce Exporters Association of Kenya, represented by its Chief Executive Officer Hosea Machuki, also took part in the launch. Machuki said the project showed steady investor interest in Kenya’s horticulture sector.

Wider impact on the sector

Industry players say the Flamingo expansion reflects continued confidence in Kenya’s position as a major supplier of high-value horticultural products. The project also aligns with Fair Trade standards, which remain important for global buyers.

Analysts note that such investments help Kenya maintain its role in global flower markets while supporting employment and export growth. They also say strong cooperation between government and investors will shape the sector’s future.

With the new expansion underway, Flamingo Flowers adds momentum to a sector that remains central to Kenya’s economy and trade outlook.

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