The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) in Kenya has issued an alert concerning a fraudulent letter purportedly authorizing the exportation of raw macadamia nuts. The document, dated May 21, 2025, and featuring the supposed signature of the Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, has been identified as counterfeit.
AFA's statement confirms, "The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) wishes to inform the general public, stakeholders in the nuts and oil crops industry, and all enforcement agencies that a forged letter dated 21st May 2025 purporting to authorize the export of raw (in-shell) macadamia nuts is currently in circulation."
The statement reiterates, "AFA affirms that the letter in question is a forgery and was not issued through any legitimate channel. In accordance with Section 43 of the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) Act, 2013, the ban on the export of raw (in-shell) macadamia nuts remains in force."
The AFA has engaged law enforcement to probe the matter, stating, "The Authority has reported the matter to the Inspector General of Police for investigation and prosecution of all parties involved in drafting, circulating, or attempting to use the fraudulent document."
The authority advises vigilance among stakeholders, noting, "We urge all exporters, enforcement agencies, and the general public to disregard the forged letter in its entirety, avoid engaging in or facilitating any export of raw (in-shell) macadamia nuts, and promptly report any suspicious activities to the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) or the relevant law enforcement agencies."
Source: Nairobi
