Avocados from Rwanda's new season are hitting the market. Seun Rasheed, CEO of Souk Farms, announces that the company shipped its first container of the season on Wednesday and shares his insights on the upcoming season.
© Souk Farms
The start of the season corresponds to a commercial window rather than an agronomic calendar. Rasheed states, "Rwanda enjoys ideal agro-climatic conditions just south of the equator, with fertile volcanic soils, reliable rainfall, and altitudes between 1,800–2,200m that are perfectly suited for avocado cultivation. This enables year-round production potential. Our strategic focus, however, is September to March, when competition from large-volume producers such as Peru, Kenya, and South Africa is lower. This gives Rwanda a distinct advantage as a reliable counter-seasonal supplier."
The country continues on its momentum of increasing volumes, according to the grower. He adds, "This year, Rwanda's volumes are ramping up significantly, with a projected increase of 200–300% compared to last season. New orchards established three years ago by the likes of Souk Farms are now entering production. We expect national exports to exceed 10,000 tonnes next season. This marks the beginning of a steep growth curve for Rwanda's avocado industry, which is expected to surpass 25,000 tonnes by 2027."
© Souk Farms
As for the quality achieved this season, Seun assures it is "excellent." He explains, "This season's crop is showing excellent quality with steadily improving sizes. Whereas three years ago the average was 20–26, we are now consistently seeing 18–22, with expectations to move to 16–20 in the coming year. Beyond sizes, the fruit has strong oil content and high dry matter, giving superior eating quality."
The improvement in the logistical situation in Eastern Africa, after years in which the crisis in the Red Sea caused difficulties for exporters, has also been reported in Rwanda, according to Rasheed: "Logistics has improved considerably this year thanks to close collaboration with Maersk and other partners. Transit times to Europe are now 37 days to Rotterdam and London, 30 days to Algeciras, and just 17 days to Dubai. Kigali's growing logistics hub and dedicated reefer capacity give us confidence in timely delivery."
© Souk Farms
According to its CEO, Souk Farms will focus on European and Middle Eastern markets this new season. He concludes, "Demand for Rwandan avocados is growing rapidly, particularly in premium markets across Europe and the Middle East. Souk remains focused on these regions, where quality and consistency are rewarded with stronger netbacks. Our novelty lies in Rwanda's story — smaller, cleaner orchards, strong sustainability credentials, and a unique counter-seasonal position. We are strengthening our certifications and traceability systems to ensure compliance with EU and UK retail standards. Looking ahead, we are also exploring value-added branding opportunities to position Rwandan avocados distinctly on the global stage."
For more information:
Seun Rasheed
Souk Farms
Tel: +447967997368 / +250738306725
Email: [email protected] / [email protected]
www.souk-ig.com
