Makueni County has made a significant leap in advancing its agricultural sector with the inauguration of a state-of-the-art Horticultural Aggregation Center and Packhouse in Wote. This transformative facility is designed to enhance the processing, packaging, and marketing of mangoes for both export and local markets, positioning the county as a key player in horticultural production.
Strategically located near the Wote Police Station, the center is set to revolutionize the mango value chain in the region. It will serve as a centralized collection point for mangoes from local farmers, significantly reducing post-harvest losses that have historically plagued the industry. By streamlining the aggregation process, the facility ensures that exporters have direct access to high-quality produce, meeting the stringent standards required for international markets.
The facility is expected to bring substantial economic benefits to local farmers. Export-quality mangoes will be sold at a rate of Kshs. 12 per piece, while mangoes destined for the local market will fetch between Kshs. 15 and Kshs. 19 per kilogram. This structured pricing system offers farmers a clear understanding of market dynamics, enabling them to maximize their earnings. Additionally, the center provides a platform for farmers to receive fair prices for their produce, eliminating the exploitation often associated with middlemen.
Farmers in the region have been encouraged to notify their ward agriculture officers or administrators when their mangoes are ready for harvesting. This proactive measure is designed to facilitate seamless coordination between farmers and buyers, ensuring timely collection and delivery of produce. By improving the linkage between producers and markets, the facility aims to enhance profitability and reduce the logistical challenges previously faced by exporters.
Equipped to handle large volumes of mangoes, the aggregation center boasts advanced systems for sorting, grading, and packaging. These processes are essential for maintaining the quality and consistency of mangoes, which are critical factors in meeting the demands of both local and international markets. The facility’s ability to process mangoes efficiently is expected to attract more buyers to the region, further boosting the incomes of farmers.
Beyond its immediate economic impact, the center represents a broader commitment to modernizing agriculture in the county. By addressing key challenges in the mango value chain, such as post-harvest losses and market access, the facility underscores the importance of investing in infrastructure that supports agricultural development. It also highlights the potential of public-private partnerships in driving growth and innovation in the sector.
The launch of the Horticultural Aggregation Center and Packhouse marks a new chapter for Makueni County’s agricultural landscape. It is anticipated to not only uplift the livelihoods of local farmers but also position the county as a model for sustainable agricultural practices. With its focus on quality, efficiency, and market accessibility, the facility is set to become a cornerstone of the region’s economic growth.
This initiative reflects a forward-thinking approach to agriculture, emphasizing the need for robust systems that empower farmers and create value across the supply chain. As the facility begins operations, it is poised to transform the horticultural sector in Makueni County, setting a precedent for similar projects in other regions.
