Kenya unveils cashew nut revival plan to create 350,000 jobs, add US$232.56M to economy
Kenya targets job creation and export growth through a comprehensive revival of its underperforming cashew nut sector.
KENYA – Kenya has unveiled plans to revive its struggling cashew nut industry, with projections indicating the sector could create up to 350,000 jobs and contribute more than Kes 30 billion (US$232.56M) to the economy.
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Sen. Mutahi Kagwe said years of declining production have undermined farmer incomes, employment and export earnings, despite strong global demand for cashew nuts.
Kenya currently produces about 13,000 tonnes annually, far below its installed processing capacity of 45,000 tonnes.
According to the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), a full revival of the industry could restore livelihoods across the Coast region while making a meaningful contribution to gross domestic product.
Kagwe said the turnaround strategy is anchored on research and farmer support led by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO) Mtwapa Centre.
A new disease-tolerant, high-yielding cashew variety has already been developed, with 20,000 seedlings ready for distribution during the upcoming long rains. Kagwe added that four additional improved varieties are expected within the next six months to further support productivity gains.
Seedling multiplication and distribution will be coordinated by AFA in collaboration with county governments, supported by the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (Kephis) and agricultural extension services.
Farmers are also being sensitised on improved agronomic practices, including proper spacing, intercropping with coconut and mango, and top-grafting to rehabilitate ageing orchards.
Processing capacity is another pillar of the revival strategy. Kagwe said existing processing facilities in Kilifi and Kwale counties will be rehabilitated under the Kenya Industrial Estates programme.
In addition, new small-scale processing units will receive financing through the Youth Enterprise Development Fund and the Women Enterprise Fund.
The Cabinet Secretary questioned the continued importation of cashew nuts despite the country’s untapped production potential, urging 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 main bottleneck, despite significant investments and the engagement of thousands of farmers.
To accelerate progress, Kagwe announced plans to convene a high-level stakeholder meeting to fast-track the development of a comprehensive master plan for the cashew nut industry.
“Cashew farmers, there is hope. We have heard you, and this time we are moving with speed and seriousness,” Kagwe said.
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