Macadamia farmers across the country have been urged to sell their high-quality nuts to designated collection centres as the government enforces new pricing regulations. Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe announced that farmers should receive a minimum of Ksh.100 per kilo, a move aimed at protecting them from exploitation and ensuring fair compensation for their produce.
Speaking before the Senate, CS Kagwe emphasized the importance of farmers capitalizing on the current harvesting season, which began on March 1, 2025. He assured stakeholders that the government is committed to stabilizing the macadamia nut market and enhancing profitability for farmers.
Supporting Kagwe’s announcement, Jane Maigua, the chairperson of the Macadamia Nut Association (MACNUT), reaffirmed that processors are prepared to purchase macadamia nuts at the stipulated price. She also provided a list of collection centres in various regions, including Murang’a, Kiambu, Kirinyaga, Nyeri, Meru, Embu, Machakos, Taita Taveta, Baringo, Bomet, Trans Nzoia, and Makueni.
“We are committed to ensuring that you are not exploited and that you receive a fair price for your efforts,” Maigua stated. She encouraged farmers to take advantage of the structured market by selling their produce through recognised cooperatives and collection centres.
Additionally, Maigua advised farmers to join cooperatives and organized groups to access financial opportunities, training programs, and subsidised bio-fertilisers. She explained that membership in cooperatives could empower farmers with better bargaining power and access to critical resources needed for sustainable farming.
CS Kagwe also highlighted the immense potential for value addition in Kenya’s macadamia nut sector. He noted that the country has the capacity to process up to 120,000 metric tons of macadamia nuts annually, supported by investments exceeding Ksh.15 billion. By promoting value addition, Kenya can increase its competitiveness in the global market, create jobs, and enhance farmers’ earnings.
With the government’s intervention and strategic investments in the macadamia sector, farmers are poised to benefit significantly from the increased market stability and fair pricing. Stakeholders remain optimistic that these measures will drive the industry’s growth and improve livelihoods.
