Macadamia Farmer Decries Brokers and Low Nut Prices

Macadamia farming has positioned Kenya on the global map as a producer of quality nuts, delivering consistently to international markets. Mr. Sylvester Munene and Mr. George Wahogo are two dedicated farmers specializing in macadamia nut production, alongside other horticultural crops like avocados and vegetables on their homestead in the Mang’u area in Thika. On their four-hectare farm, the brothers produced up to 1000 kilograms of macadamia nuts during the last season.

Mr. Sylvester Munene, a former hospitality industry employee, explains that farming is far more lucrative than an 8-to-6 job, which led him to leave his career and focus entirely on farming. He emphasizes the benefits of grafted seedlings, particularly the Murang’a 1 variety, over indigenous seeds.

Grafted seedlings from a nursery bear nuts earlier, typically within 3 to 5 years, compared to trees grown from seeds, which may take 7 to 10 years. Though grafted seedlings are relatively expensive, costing around 600 Ksh each, their high yields make them a worthwhile investment for farmers.

Having ventured into agriculture in the 1980s, the duo possesses extensive knowledge of the macadamia sector. Mr. Munene notes the evolution of macadamia farming, from the use of organic indigenous trees to the now popular grafted varieties has seen an increase in their yields. He describes the difference in appearance between the two, highlighting that the indigenous tree has dark green, thorny leaves, whereas the grafted tree boasts smoother, bright green foliage.

However, despite the demand for macadamia nuts, Munene reveals that sales have faced challenges over time. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, prices ranged between 150 Ksh and 200 Ksh per kilo. After the pandemic, prices dropped significantly, sometimes reaching as low as 80 Ksh, and even 20 Ksh per kilo when dealing with brokers.

This prompted the farmers to focus on dealing with processors more for their better payment rates. Mentioning that when brokers buy at as low as 20 ksh they buy at 90 ksh which is way better for a farmer though still low.

The main macadamia harvesting season begins in July and can extend through September or even November. Unfortunately, this period is often plagued by issues such as nut theft and broker interference. Farmers, however, prefer dealing directly with processors, as they offer better prices and greater satisfaction.

Mr. Munene highlights the superior performance of grafted macadamia trees, which yield more nuts and mature more quickly compared to their indigenous counterparts. Adding that the grafted trees for their resistance to pests and diseases, making them easier to cultivate. Additionally, with the use of organic manure from livestock, these trees grow efficiently and rapidly.

Growing Macadamia

When growing macadamia trees, it is important to space them about 6 to 8 meters apart to allow for proper growth and air circulation. Holes should be dug to a size of 2 by 2 meters, twice as wide and deep as the root ball of the seedling. The tree should be planted at the same depth it was growing in the nursery, and the hole filled with a mixture of soil and organic matter. Consistent watering is crucial after planting.

Over time, organic manure is mixed into the soil to promote healthy root development. Mr. Munene stresses the importance of soft soil, which allows the roots to spread quickly, helping the tree reach maturity within two to three years. He also emphasizes the need to keep the area around the tree free from weeds, reducing competition for nutrients and water.

Regular application of organic manure throughout the growing seasons has been key to maintaining the health and productivity of his macadamia trees. The constant digging around the root area and the addition of manure improve soil moisture retention, ensuring consistent growth, especially during dry periods when macadamia trees are sensitive to drought.