The Macadamia Association of Kenya (MACNUT) has refuted recent media reports claiming that farmers are earning low prices for macadamias this year, calling the information inaccurate.
In a statement released on October 29, 2025, the association said that the 2025 season recorded the highest farm-gate prices in more than three years, reflecting a recovery in the sector. According to MACNUT, the improvement followed the Government of Kenya's introduction of a floor price for macadamia nuts through the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development.
The policy was designed to prevent farmer exploitation by intermediaries and ensure growers benefit directly from international demand for Kenyan macadamias. "Farmers who adhered to the government's price guidelines did not sell below KSh 100 per kilogram, and the majority earned between KSh 130 and KSh 150 during the peak season. This is a remarkable turnaround from as low as KSh 20 per kilogram offered by brokers before the reforms were implemented," the statement read.
At current exchange rates, the floor price of KSh 100 per kilogram equals about US$0.76, while the upper range of KSh 150 equates to roughly US$1.14 per kilogram.
MACNUT added that the government's ban on the export of raw in-shell nuts enabled domestic processors to handle nearly all available volumes. The measure supported local processing and value addition while maintaining employment across the industry.
Kenya is currently the world's fourth-largest macadamia producer, with key export markets in the United States, Europe, and China. The country's macadamias are known for their consistent quality and high kernel recovery.
The association reported that the second harvest season has been affected by pest infestations that have impacted nut quality. It called on the government, county agricultural departments, and private sector partners to work with growers on pest management through biological and non-chemical control methods.
MACNUT reiterated its aim to promote a transparent and sustainable value chain that supports growers and maintains Kenya's position in the global market. The association also acknowledged the government's role in stabilising the sector and restoring farmer confidence through policy measures and ongoing collaboration.
Source: PeopleDaily
