Evergreen Avocados Ltd., a new investor, is planning to establish an avocado farm in Naivasha, Kenya, as the crop's popularity continues to surge both locally and internationally. The company has submitted an Environmental Impact Assessment Study Report to the National Environment Management Authority for the project.
The report is a comprehensive examination of the project's potential effects on the environment, identifying both negative and positive impacts. It also proposes measures to mitigate any adverse effects while maximizing the positive ones, thus ensuring the environment's safety throughout all stages of the project.
The proposed avocado farm project will be carried out in phases, with a target of covering 400 hectares. The report suggests that avocado farming could be more profitable than other crops like wheat, especially for the export market. The company plans to introduce avocado varieties suited to the local climate.
Kenya is a significant avocado producer in Africa, exporting to countries like the Netherlands, UAE, France, and Spain. In 2023, the country exported its first consignment of avocados to India. According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation, Kenya is among the top 15 avocado producers globally, contributing over $100 million annually to export earnings.
The proposed farm, located near the boundary of Nakuru and Narok counties, will be established on land leased by Evergreen Avocados Ltd from Domino Investments Ltd.
Source: www.the-star.co.ke