Despite lifting a self-imposed ban on mango exports to the European Union over two years ago, Kenya is yet to make significant shipments to this key market. The limited demand for the locally grown variety of mangoes, which are not favored by European buyers, has been identified as the main barrier.
Okisegere Ojepat, CEO of the Fresh Produce Consortium, explained that the European market has a preference for the Alphonso and Kent mango varieties. The unavailability of seeds for these popular varieties locally has hampered Kenyan farmers' efforts to meet the demand. "In Kenya, we have about only five trees of Alphonso mangoes. Farmers targeting the export market cannot readily find seeds for these varieties," said Ojepat.
However, there is hope for the future as the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Organisation (Kalro) is developing seeds for the Alphonso mango, which will be available for sale to farmers once approved.
Mangoes are the second highest earning fruit exports for Kenya, with key destinations including Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. In 2021, mango exports earned the country Sh1.7 billion, second only to avocados which brought in Sh14.6 billion.
[ Sh100 = €0.58 ]
Source: businessdailyafrica.com