Climate change delays Kenya’s avocado peak harvest

KENYA – Kenya’s avocado harvest has been affected by shifting weather patterns, delaying the peak season by a month.

The season officially kicked off on February 14, 2025, with green-skinned varieties leading the way, followed by the Hass variety.

Hassan Nandwa, Managing Director of Fawakih, acknowledges that unpredictable weather has affected avocado production. “The climate has really changed, and at times has become unpredictable,” he says.

However, he emphasizes that growers are adapting by implementing strategies to maintain quality and meet market expectations.

The shift in flowering periods has delayed the Hass variety’s peak harvest from March to April. While this disrupts the usual schedule, Nandwa assures that quality remains intact.

He notes that Kenyan avocados continue to improve each year, meeting international market standards.

Despite climate-related disruptions, Kenyan growers remain optimistic, citing strong demand in key export markets. “Global trade is also experiencing disruptions, but we see that demand for avocados remains solid,” Nandwa states.

Kenyan avocados are recognized for their consistent nquality, which strengthens their presence in markets across Europe, the Middle East, and the Far East.

The industry’s confidence is reflected in the expansion of avocado acreage. According to Nandwa, planted land has grown from 30,000 to 34,000 hectares, signaling sustained growth despite environmental challenges.

Export season officially kicks off

Meanwhile, the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) had previously announced that the official avocado export season will commence on March 1.

This follows an extensive survey conducted by the Horticultural Crops Directorate (HCD) in early January to assess fruit maturity and expected volumes.

To maintain quality, AFA-HCD inspectors will closely monitor all exports to ensure compliance with strict market standards.

Exporters are required to book inspections at least three days before shipping, ensuring a smooth process that upholds Kenya’s reputation for high-quality avocados.

While Hass and Fuerte varieties are approved for export, size restrictions are in place. Only avocados with a maximum size code of 20 (184g) will be allowed.

Additionally, exporters must submit a list of their Horticultural Produce Marketing Agents (HPMA) or suppliers by February 26 and work only with registered agents to remain compliant.

Strict enforcement measures have been put in place to ensure adherence to regulations. The Directorate has warned that improper packaging and transportation, such as moving avocados without crates or using unauthorized vehicles, will lead to penalties.

Recognizing the importance of proper handling throughout the production process, AFA emphasizes that exporters must take full responsibility for meeting market requirements.

Kenyan growers and exporters are also adopting advanced methods to delay fruit ripening, such as using active controlled atmosphere (CA) containers and ethylene absorbers.

“This challenge has really opened the eyes of Kenyan growers and exporters, leading to better quality,” Nandwa remarks.

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