Kenya launches drive to revive cashew nut industry
Government targets 350,000 jobs and boosts to coastal livelihoods through renewed sector focus.
KENYA – Kenya has rolled out a fresh initiative to revitalize its cashew nut industry, aiming to reverse years of declining production that have cost farmers income, jobs, and export earnings despite strong global demand.
Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Sen. Mutahi Kagwe, said the revival plan focuses on maximizing the sector’s untapped potential, particularly along the Coast, where cashew farming once supported thousands of households.
Boosting production through research and support
Kenya currently produces around 13,000 tonnes of cashew nuts annually, far below the installed processing capacity of 45,000 tonnes. According to the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), fully reviving the sector could generate up to 350,000 jobs, contribute more than KSh30 billion (US$219 million) to GDP, and restore livelihoods in coastal counties.
Speaking in Kilifi County, Kagwe emphasized the role of science in agriculture. “Agriculture must be guided by science if we are to compete and create wealth for our farmers,” he said. He noted that a new disease-tolerant, high-yielding cashew variety has already been developed.
About 20,000 seedlings of the improved variety are ready for distribution during the long rains, with four more improved varieties expected within six months.
Seedling multiplication and distribution will be coordinated by AFA in partnership with county governments, supported by the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) and agricultural extension services. This initiative aims to replace old, unproductive trees and expand acreage under improved varieties.
Farmers will also receive guidance on good agronomic practices to increase yields. These include proper tree spacing, intercropping with coconut and mango, and top-grafting techniques to rehabilitate aging orchards.
Addressing local supply gaps
Kagwe questioned Kenya’s continued importation of cashew nuts despite having favorable conditions for local production. “We have the land, the farmers and now the technology. There is no reason Kenya should be importing cashew nuts while our factories are operating below capacity,” he said.
Local processors, including East River Foods EPZ and Nuts and More Processing EPZ, have invested millions of shillings (equivalent to several million USD) in facilities and farmer engagement but have struggled to secure enough raw materials domestically.
To coordinate efforts and accelerate reforms, Kagwe announced a high-level stakeholder meeting to develop a comprehensive master plan for the sector. The gathering will include farmers, processors, researchers, county governments, and regulators.
“Cashew farmers, there is hope. We have heard you, and this time we are moving with speed and seriousness,” Kagwe said, expressing optimism that renewed focus would restore confidence and growth in the once-thriving industry.
The government’s renewed initiative also aligns with regional efforts to improve food security and boost agricultural exports. By strengthening local production, Kenya hopes to reduce dependency on imports while creating jobs and economic opportunities along the Coast.
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