Government Imposes Ban on Macadamia Harvesting
One of the key measures introduced alongside the ban is a minimum guaranteed farm gate price of Ksh 100 per kilogram of macadamia.
Macadamia seed. Photo/Olvea.
By Robert Mutasi
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Andrew Karanja, announced on Tuesday a temporary ban on macadamia nut harvesting, aimed at curbing premature harvesting and addressing farmer concerns over declining prices.
The ban, which takes effect on November 2 and runs until March 1, 2025, is part of a broader government initiative to stabilize the industry and protect local farmers from exploitation.
In an official statement, Dr. Karanja emphasized the importance of safeguarding the quality of Kenyan macadamia, which has been compromised by premature harvesting and the influx of unscrupulous dealers.
“Following consultations with industry stakeholders, a ban on macadamia harvesting will take effect from November 2, until March 1, 2025, to curb the export of Macadamia nuts,” the statement read.
One of the key measures introduced alongside the ban is a minimum guaranteed farm gate price of Ksh 100 per kilogram of macadamia.
This new price floor aims to provide farmers with fair compensation, especially after complaints that the price of macadamia had plummeted in recent months.
Many farmers had voiced frustration over the steep drop in prices, which had left them unable to cover their production costs.
“The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has also announced the new price of the nuts at Ksh 100 per kilogram. This is after farmers had decried that the price had dipped sharply,” the statement continued.
To enforce the new regulations, the government has mandated that all macadamia dealers submit their current stock for inspection, verification, and clearance by November 15, 2024.
This process is aimed at weeding out any illegal traders and ensuring that only legitimate businesses operate within the market.
The Agriculture and Food Authority will be responsible for overseeing the inspections and ensuring that all stakeholders comply with the new rules.
Dr. Karanja also warned of strict penalties for those who fail to adhere to the directive.
“The Agriculture and Food Authority is tasked with enforcing strict compliance with this directive, including revoking the license of violators. The authority will also increase inspection and surveillance to eliminate unscrupulous dealers,” he stated.
The government’s move is expected to bring much-needed relief to macadamia farmers, who have been grappling with fluctuating prices and market instability.
By stabilizing prices and tightening regulations, the Ministry of Agriculture hopes to restore confidence in the sector and ensure that Kenya maintains its position as a leading exporter of high-quality macadamia nuts.
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