Kenya Halts Avocado Harvest to Safeguard Quality, Sustainability

Kenya’s avocado farmers are entering a crucial phase in the 2024 export season, as the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has announced the closure of the main harvest season for Hass, Fuerte, Pinkerton, and Jumbo avocado varieties, effective 25th October 2024. This decision by the Horticultural Crops Directorate (HCD), a branch of AFA, is aimed at maintaining the country’s reputation as a top supplier of quality avocados and protecting future harvests.

Kenya’s avocado industry has seen significant growth in global demand, making the fruit a major export. However, a recent survey by AFA revealed a shortage of mature avocados to sustain the current harvest cycle. To prevent the harvesting of immature fruit, which harms both quality and future yields, the season has been halted.

“This is about more than just this year’s profits—it’s about ensuring future crops and maintaining trust in our produce,” said AFA’s Director General, Dr. Bruno Linyiru.

The suspension is done as part of a broader sustainability effort. Although avocado exports will continue via air shipment, strict regulations will be enforced to ensure only mature fruits are exported. Exporters will also need to provide traceability information for each shipment to uphold transparency and quality standards.

In December 2024, the AFA-HCD will review the situation to decide whether to reopen the harvest season. For now, farmers will allow their crops to mature fully, ensuring that future exports meet the high standards that Kenyan avocados are known for. Thanks to this pause, the green gold will return stronger and more flavorful than ever, ensuring quality over quantity and sustainability over short-term gains.

“This isn’t a stop; it’s a step forward,” Dr. Linyiru emphasized, pointing to the long-term benefits of prioritizing quality and sustainability. As Kenyan avocados continue to captivate global markets, this strategic pause will ensure their enduring success.