Nyandarua: A section of avocado farmers in Nyandarua County has appealed to the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) to reconsider their directive that halts avocado exports during certain times of the year. This follows a recent communication from AFA, indicating that the closure of avocado harvesting for export purposes will take effect on October 20, 2025, in a move aimed at safeguarding quality standards and ensuring that only mature fruits are shipped to international markets.
According to Kenya News Agency, many local farmers, who have lately invested heavily in avocado farming, say the restrictions, though well-intentioned, carry far-reaching economic implications. They argue that the blanket suspension of exports affects their income flow and discourages farmers who depend on the fruit as a key source of livelihood.
They are now calling on AFA to adopt a zonal assessment approach that allows harvesting and export based on scientifically verified maturity tests, rather than a uniform national calendar closure, noting that climatic conditions vary from one region to another, and so does the maturity of fruits.
The Nyandarua Chief Officer for Agriculture, Samuel Gitaka, noted that the devolved administration has been working closely with AFA to promote compliance and improve avocado production standards. He said AFA has trained County Agricultural Extension Officers on best practices for avocado farming targeting export markets, adding that they remain committed to supporting farmers to meet global standards.
Gitaka further urged farmers to adhere to proper farming and post-harvest handling practices, even as Nyandarua continues to position itself as a leading producer of quality tree fruits.