Kenya’s horticulture exports have shown impressive growth in the first quarter of 2024, marking a 14.3% increase compared to the same period in 2023, according to recent data released by the Central Bank. The country earned 45.1 billion shillings (approximately 351 million U.S. dollars) during this period, up from 307 million dollars in 2023, driven by expanded shipments to European and Asian markets.
In terms of volume, Kenya exported 208,146 tonnes of produce in Q1 2024, a significant rise from 171,384 tonnes in Q1 2023, highlighting the sector’s robust performance and export capacity growth.
Kenya’s horticulture exports primarily consist of vegetables, fruits, and cut flowers, with flowers, particularly destined for Europe, contributing the most to earnings. This sector’s continued growth is a continuation of the positive trend seen in 2023, where earnings reached 1.21 billion dollars, up from 1.14 billion dollars in 2022.
Europe remains a key market for Kenyan horticulture, with the Netherlands and the United Kingdom leading in imports. In Asia, countries like China, India, and Kazakhstan also represent significant markets for Kenyan produce, reflecting diversified export destinations.
Looking ahead, Kenya aims to explore new markets within Africa, as evidenced by its participation in initiatives like the COMESA and EAC Horticultural Accelerator. This collaborative effort with Ethiopia, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda seeks to foster growth in the fruit and vegetable sectors across Eastern and Southern Africa, expanding market access and regional trade opportunities.
Mohamed Kadah, assistant secretary-general for Programs at the COMESA secretariat, emphasized the initiative’s potential to accelerate agricultural sector growth within the participating regions, underscoring Kenya’s strategic role in regional economic integration and agricultural development.
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