Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has launched a renewed drive to revive Kenya’s struggling cashew nut industry, noting that years of declining production have led to lost jobs, reduced farmer incomes and diminished export earnings, despite strong global demand.
Kenya currently produces about 13,000 tonnes of cashew nuts annually, far below its installed processing capacity of 45,000 tonnes.
According to the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), a full revival of the sector could generate up to 350,000 jobs, add more than Sh30 billion to the GDP and restore livelihoods across the Coast region.
Speaking in Kilifi County, Kagwe said the turnaround strategy is anchored on research and farmer support spearheaded by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO) Mtwapa Centre.
He noted that a new disease-tolerant, high-yielding cashew variety has already been developed, with 20,000 seedlings ready for distribution during the long rains. Four additional improved varieties are expected within the next six months.
Seedling multiplication and distribution will be coordinated by AFA and county governments, with support from the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) and agricultural extension services.
Farmers are also being sensitised on good agronomic practices, including proper spacing, intercropping with coconut and mango, and top-grafting to rehabilitate ageing orchards.
Kagwe questioned the continued importation of cashew nuts despite Kenya’s untapped production potential, calling for faster action to scale up local output.
Processors, including East River Foods EPZ and Nuts and More Processing EPZ, cited low farm-level production as the sector’s biggest bottleneck, despite heavy investments and engagement with thousands of farmers.
The CS announced plans to convene a high-level stakeholder meeting to fast-track development of a master plan for the sector.
“Cashew farmers, there is hope. We have heard you, and this time we are moving with speed and seriousness,” Kagwe said.
