Kenya has become one of the world’s leading producers of macadamia nuts, commanding roughly 13 percent of the global processed kernel market, equivalent to about 7,750 tonnes. The crop is now a significant source of foreign exchange and an important contributor to rural livelihoods, with more than 200,000 smallholder farmers participating in its production. As global demand rises and Kenya scales up its output, the 1st ever Makueni Macadamia Summit 2026 will serve as a pivotal gathering to shape the next era of the industry.
The State of Macadamia Production in Kenya
Kenya’s macadamia production continues on an upward trajectory. Nut-in-shell volumes were approximately 40.9 thousand tonnes in 2022 and rose to 44.4 thousand tonnes in 2023. Recent national figures indicate that 2024 production exceeded 49 thousand tonnes, supported by enhanced competition among processors seeking reliable raw material.
The acreage dedicated to macadamia farming has also expanded steadily. National agricultural records place the 2024 area under macadamia between about 9,300 and 11,000 hectares, depending on the reporting authority. This reflects increased farmer interest, county-level diversification, and greater investment in perennial crops that offer stable long-term returns.
Revenue at the farm gate has improved significantly. Prices for nut-in-shell climbed from roughly 58 shillings per kilogram in 2023 to about 98 shillings per kilogram in 2024. The value of national production doubled over the same period, surpassing 4.9 billion shillings. Processed kernels continue to command higher prices, reaffirming the critical importance of local value addition.
Kenya’s macadamia exports remain strong. Key international markets include the United States, China, Japan, Vietnam, Germany, and the Netherlands. Export volumes and earnings have steadily increased, supported by improvements in traceability, quality control, and sustainability certification.
Key Challenges in the Sector
Despite strong growth, the macadamia sector still faces several challenges.
The first is the ongoing tension between raw nut exports and domestic value addition. National policy currently prohibits the export of unprocessed nut-in-shell to safeguard local processors. While processors and farmer groups support this policy, isolated cases of premature harvesting and illegal trading continue to undermine quality.
Price volatility is another concern. Although recent seasons have seen healthy price recovery, the sector has previously weathered steep declines due to global oversupply and shifting consumption patterns. Such fluctuations make planning difficult for smallholder farmers.
High production and processing costs remain a constraint. Inputs, labor, certification requirements, and logistical expenses place financial pressure on farmers and processors. Government programs aimed at reducing costs through seedling support and infrastructure development will be essential for long-term resilience.
Domestic consumption of macadamia nuts is extremely low, accounting for less than five percent of national production. This dependence on export markets exposes the sector to external shocks and limits opportunities for local product diversification.
Macadamia Farming in Makueni County
Makueni County is emerging as an important frontier for macadamia expansion. With approximately 130.9 hectares already under macadamia cultivation, the region is proving attractive to smallholders seeking high-value crops suited to semi-arid conditions. Although traditionally overshadowed by counties such as Meru, Murang’a, Kiambu, and Embu, Makueni’s potential is now gaining greater national attention.
The county’s climatic conditions, ongoing investment in water management, and growing farmer training initiatives are creating a conducive environment for macadamia development. As interest grows, Makueni is well-positioned to become a significant contributor to Kenya’s macadamia supply.
The 1st Ever Makueni Macadamia Summit 2026
The 1st ever Makueni Macadamia Summit 2026 will be held on 27 March 2026 in Kikima, Mbooni, organized by Sergeantsville Limited, the Makueni County Government, and the Macadamia Nut Processors of Kenya. This inaugural summit will unite farmers, agronomists, processors, exporters, equipment manufacturers, investors, and researchers to discuss opportunities and innovations shaping Kenya’s macadamia sector.
Key themes will include improved agronomic practices, orchard management, seedling quality, climate-smart farming, pest and disease control, and modern post-harvest handling techniques. Participants will explore the latest advancements in processing technology, value addition, packaging, traceability, and sustainability standards. With global demand for healthy, traceable, and responsibly sourced nuts growing at more than ten percent annually, the summit will offer vital insights for farmers and investors aiming to compete in premium markets across Europe, Asia, and North America.
Opportunities for Stakeholders
Farmers can benefit from training, improved seedlings, and stronger partnerships with processors. Cooperative marketing structures can help improve bargaining power and ensure better returns.
Processors and investors will find opportunities in value addition, new product lines, and the development of macadamia-based innovations such as cold-pressed oil, nut flour, snacks, and confectionery ingredients. The use of macadamia shells for energy generation, activated carbon, and organic fertilizer also offers promising avenues.
Government agencies can use the summit to strengthen regulatory frameworks, improve quality control, support infrastructure development, and encourage adoption of sustainability certifications.
Why the Summit Matters
The 1st ever Makueni Macadamia Summit 2026 is more than a conference; it is a turning point for one of Kenya’s most dynamic agricultural industries. By bringing the sector’s most influential stakeholders together in Makueni, the summit will raise the county’s profile, expand knowledge-sharing, attract investment, and set the stage for long-term competitiveness in global markets.
Contact Information
For sponsorship, exhibiting, or participation:
Telephone: +254 798 307 975 or +254 720 284 389
Email: info@sergeantsville.net, sales@sergeantsville.net, marketing@sergeantsville.net
Website: www.sergeantsville.net
