Nyandarua Avocado Farmers Urge AFA to Reconsider Export Ban

A section of avocado farmers in Nyandarua County has appealed to the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) to reconsider its directive halting avocado exports during specific periods of the year.

The appeal follows a recent announcement from AFA indicating that the closure of avocado harvesting for export purposes will take effect on October 20, 2025. The move aims to safeguard quality standards and ensure that only mature fruits are shipped to international markets.

However, many local farmers — who have invested heavily in avocado production — argue that while the directive is well-intentioned, it poses significant economic challenges. They say the blanket suspension of exports disrupts income flow and discourages growers who rely on the fruit as a primary source of livelihood.

The farmers are now calling on AFA to adopt a zonal assessment approach, allowing harvesting and export based on scientifically verified maturity tests rather than a uniform national calendar. They note that climatic conditions vary widely across regions, influencing fruit maturity differently.

Nyandarua County Chief Officer for Agriculture, Samuel Gitaka, said the devolved administration continues to work closely with AFA to promote compliance and enhance avocado production standards.

He noted that AFA has trained county agricultural extension officers on best practices for avocado farming targeting export markets and reaffirmed the county’s commitment to supporting farmers in meeting global standards.

Gitaka also urged farmers to adhere to proper farming and post-harvest handling practices as Nyandarua positions itself as a leading producer of high-quality tree fruits.