Kenya flags off first Avocado consignment to India

State Department for Crops Development Principal Secretary Kello Harsama presided over the flagging-off ceremony on Saturday, where he underscored the government's dedication to promoting agricultural growth and sustainability while nurturing stronger international partnerships.

"This is a momentous occasion for both Kenya and India, symbolizing the fruits of our dedicated bilateral negotiations. Today, we proudly launch the export of Kenyan avocados to the Indian market," Harsama said.

The Principal Secretary said Kenya, a leading avocado exporter of avocado in Africa and sixth in the world will explore more markets for the produce.

“We will continue to seek more markets for our farmers in line with the spirit of our bottom-up economic transformation agenda,” he said.

According to figures from the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Kenya has now ascended to the upper echelons of major avocado exporters worldwide, cementing its position as a global agricultural powerhouse.

The country features in the list of 15 leading avocado exporters with this global ranking led by Mexico with 2.4 million tons of production, followed by Colombia with 980,000 tons, Peru with 772000 tons, Indonesia at 669,000 tons, and the Dominican Republic with 634,000 tons.

High Commissioner for India in Kenya, Ms. Namgya C. Khampa, and Kenya's High Commissioner in India and Ambassador Willy Bett were among dignitaries who witnessed the flagging of the export to India.

Cornelly Serem, Chairman of the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), AFA's Acting Director-General, Willis Audi, Acting Director of the Horticultural Crops Directorate (HCD), Christine C. Rotich and Dr. Rosebellah Langat were also present.