In 2024, Kenya's avocado production declined by 11.2 percent to 562 thousand metric tons (TMT), driven by reduced rainfall. Despite this setback, production is expected to rebound by four percent in 2025, reaching 585 TMT, supported by an increase in the land under avocado production and an increase in yield as a result of quality control improvements. Bolstered by government incentives such as the provision of high-quality seedlings, farmer training programs, and access to subsidized inputs, the planted area is projected to increase by six percent in 2025 to reach 34,000 hectares. The value of exports in 2024 is estimated to have surged by 11 percent to reach $159 million. The increase in value was driven by an increase in demand for Kenyan avocado and that boosted its competitiveness in international markets. Domestic consumption accounts for 47 percent of production, with 2025 projections at 280 thousand metric tons.
Kenya's avocado industry has seen notable growth, driven by high international demand and rising domestic consumption. In 2023, production reached 633 TMT, making Kenya the sixth-largest global producer. Exports increased from 103,254 metric tons (MT) in 2022 to 122,581 MT in 2023 and post estimates 2024 export volumes to increase by five percent to 128 thousand metric tons. Despite higher export volumes in 2022, export value declined by 11 percent in 2023 due to the lower quality of avocado produced compared to the other leading producers such as Mexico, Peru, and Colombia. These countries benefit from more advanced agricultural practices, and better infrastructure allowing them to produce and ship higher-quality avocados at competitive prices. In 2025, exports are projected to grow by five percent to 135 TMT, supported by expanded market access to Iraq, South Korea, and India.
Post forecasts production to rise by four percent in 2025, reaching 585 TMT because of expanded land under cultivation and improved yields per hectare. Over 30 counties, including Murang'a, Kiambu, and Nakuru, actively engage in avocado farming due to their favorable ecological conditions. The country benefits from its tropical and subtropical climate, with well-distributed rainfall and moderate temperatures ideal for avocado growth. The main harvesting seasons are March to August and October to December, depending on the variety, with Hass and Fuerte being the most common types.
Kenya is Africa's leading avocado producer and ranks second in avocado export value after South Africa. Avocados are primarily grown by smallholder farmers, who typically own less than one acre of land. These farmers form the backbone of Kenya's avocado industry, with each typically managing between 10 and 20 avocado trees per homestead. These smallholders constitute approximately 70 percent of about 966,000 avocado farmers in the country.
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