In the initial half of 2024, Kenya observed a 3.5 percent reduction in revenue from horticulture exports, influenced by diminished dispatches to European and Asian markets. This information was disclosed by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) in a report unveiled in Nairobi. The country amassed 86.8 billion shillings (approximately 673 million U.S. dollars) in this timeframe, a fall from 697 million dollars recorded in the corresponding period of 2023.
The KNBS report detailed that Kenya's export volume encompassed 214,676 metric tonnes of cut flowers, fruits, and vegetables during the first six months of 2024, marking a decrease from 291,118 metric tonnes in the prior year. Cut flowers were the leading revenue contributors, securing 403 million dollars, primarily from the European market. Fruit exports generated 144 million dollars, with the rest of the earnings derived from vegetable exports.
A stronger Kenyan shilling, which appreciated to 129 against the dollar from over 140 in January, was partially blamed for the dip in earnings. This currency appreciation made Kenyan exports pricier and dampened demand. The Netherlands and Britain continue to be Kenya's foremost horticulture markets in Europe, whereas China, India, and Kazakhstan lead in Asia.
Efforts are underway to explore new markets, especially within Africa, through collaborations with Ethiopia, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda under the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa and the East Africa Community Horticultural Accelerator initiative.
Source: Capital FM