In a move aimed at advancing the agricultural framework within Makueni County, Kenya, Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. has inaugurated a Horticultural Aggregation Center and Packhouse. This facility is poised to elevate the standards of mango processing, packaging, and marketing, catering to both the export and domestic sectors.
Positioned in proximity to the Wote Police Station, the center is designed to invigorate the mango value chain in Makueni by acting as a pivotal collection hub for mangoes harvested by local cultivators, thereby diminishing post-harvest losses. Furthermore, it is set to offer exporters streamlined access to premium-grade mangoes.
The county has disclosed that mangoes destined for export will be priced at Kshs. 12 each, whereas those for the domestic market will range from Kshs. 15 to Kshs. 19 per kilogram. Local farmers are encouraged by the county administration to coordinate with their ward agriculture officers or ward administrators upon the maturation of their mangoes to ensure efficient integration with potential buyers, aiming to enhance profit margins for the growers.
The aggregation center is outfitted to manage substantial volumes of mangoes, facilitating effective sorting, grading, and packaging processes tailored for both local and international markets. This initiative is anticipated to augment the earnings of farmers by establishing a direct conduit to exporters, who have historically encountered obstacles in securing quality produce from the region.
Source: Kilimo News