Kenya has inaugurated a technical committee tasked with creating a sustainable supply chain for the fruit. The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Investments, Trade, and Industry under Cabinet Secretary Hon. Salim Mvurya, follows a collaboration agreement signed between the Kenyan government and Coca-Cola Central, East, and West Africa during President William Ruto’s state visit to Atlanta in May 2024.
Aiming for Transformational Growth
The committee’s mandate is to enhance every aspect of the mango value chain, from seed selection and planting to post-harvest handling, processing, and marketing. Speaking at the launch, CS Mvurya highlighted the immense potential of mango farming to transform Kenya’s agricultural landscape.
“This partnership between Kenya and Coca-Cola is a significant opportunity that must be seized,” said Mvurya. “The committee has a vital role in exploring sustainable methods of producing high-quality mangoes that meet international standards, facilitate market access, and promote aggregation.”
The initiative seeks to develop high-potential mango varieties capable of thriving in local conditions while meeting the quality requirements of global markets. Additionally, it aims to improve post-harvest processes, thereby reducing losses and ensuring a consistent supply.
Leveraging Regional Trade Opportunities
CS Mvurya emphasized the importance of leveraging trade opportunities within regional and continental frameworks, including the East African Community (EAC), Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA), and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“These frameworks offer a critical pathway to connect Kenyan mango farmers with international markets,” noted Mvurya. He added that empowering farmers to understand quality standards and requirements will be a key focus area for the technical committee.
Collaboration with County Governments
County governments will play a central role in the success of this initiative. The CS stressed the importance of involving counties in training farmers and providing them with the necessary resources and support.
“Close collaboration with county governments is essential for equipping farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to meet both local and international market demands,” Mvurya said.
Tackling Seasonality and Supply Chain Challenges
One of the committee’s primary objectives will be addressing the seasonal nature of mango production. By assessing the impacts of various seasons and building a more predictable supply chain, the committee aims to enable better planning and investment in mango processing and export.
“Mango farming has the potential to become a major economic driver for Kenya, transforming it from a seasonal fruit into a reliable cash crop that can support the livelihoods of thousands of farmers,” Mvurya stated.
Coca-Cola’s Commitment
Representatives from Coca-Cola expressed strong confidence in the initiative, reiterating their commitment to enhancing the mango supply chain. The partnership aligns with Coca-Cola’s broader sustainability goals while providing significant economic benefits to Kenyan farmers.
Delivering Results
The technical committee is expected to submit a comprehensive report by early February 2025, outlining actionable recommendations to develop a sustainable and profitable mango supply chain. This report will guide future policies and investments in the industry.
A New Dawn for Mango Farmers
The formation of the technical committee signals a new chapter for Kenya’s mango industry. By integrating global partnerships, leveraging regional trade frameworks, and empowering farmers, the country aims to elevate mango farming from a seasonal enterprise to a major economic contributor.
With the collaborative effort of the government, Coca-Cola, and local stakeholders, Kenya is poised to unlock the full potential of its mango industry, providing a steady income for farmers and positioning the fruit as a reliable export commodity.
