Kakuzi nominated in four categories at Kenya Avocado Excellence Awards

KENYA – Kenya’s Kakuzi has been nominated in four categories at the 2025 Kenya Avocado Excellence Awards (KAEA), marking the company as a leading player in the country’s avocado industry.

The awards, organised by the Avocado Society of Kenya, recognise individuals and businesses that contribute significantly to the avocado value chain.

Kakuzi, a major supplier to both local and international markets, is in the running for awards in large-scale orchards over 100 acres, nursery and seedling growers, large-scale exporters with over 200 containers, and auxiliary services for its packhouse.

Kakuzi manages 963 hectares of certified avocado production and operates one of the largest outgrowers’ schemes in Kenya, offering free avocado maturity-testing services to farmers.

“This recognition belongs to our exceptional teams for their collective efforts to position Kenya as a globally competitive producer of avocados. We will continue collaborating and empowering smallholder avocado farmers through technical training and capacity building to enable market access,” said managing director Chris Flowers.

Expanding sustainability efforts

The company is preparing to release its 2024 sustainability report, which will detail environmental, social, and governance performance. Kakuzi has emphasized its commitment to sustainable practices, including responsible water use, soil management, and community engagement.

Flowers highlighted that sustainability is central to the company’s operations. “Our approach ensures that we grow responsibly while supporting local communities. The upcoming report will show how we integrate these practices across our farms and facilities,” he said.

Kakuzi’s recognition at the KAEA comes amid recent developments aimed at strengthening the avocado sector. The company has continued to expand its support for smallholder farmers through training programs and access to international markets. By focusing on quality and consistency, Kakuzi seeks to increase Kenya’s share of the global avocado market.

“We aim to maintain high standards in every aspect of production and export. Our teams are committed to innovation in farming and packaging that meets international buyer expectations,” Flowers added.

With its multi-faceted approach, Kakuzi not only grows avocados but also works to improve the livelihoods of farmers across Kenya. Its awards nominations reflect both operational excellence and dedication to sustainable agricultural practices, setting a benchmark for the country’s avocado industry.

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