Macadamia Association of Kenya elects new board to stabilize exports, strengthen farmer support

KENYA – The Macadamia Association of Kenya has elected a new leadership board following its Annual General Meeting on February 27, positioning the organization to navigate shifting export dynamics and growing demand for stronger farmer support.

The board, chaired by Pally Muthathai alongside Treasurer Bernard Sitati, Secretary Lisa Muriuki, and Directors Joel Kobia and Amir Yusuf, takes charge at a pivotal moment for Kenya’s macadamia sector.

Speaking on behalf of the board, Muthathai emphasized a collaborative approach across the value chain. “We look forward to working closely with all stakeholders across the macadamia value chain, including the relevant ministries and government authorities. We are grateful for the support that has been accorded to us so far, and we are committed to deepening these engagements for the benefit of the entire industry,” he said.

The new board’s agenda centers on expanding market opportunities in the United States, Europe, and China.

With more than 200,000 Kenyans earning income from the crop, ensuring farmer welfare remains central. “Our farmers are the backbone of this industry. We will ensure macadamia farmers receive fair value for their produce and have access to the right knowledge and support is our top priority,” Muthathai added.

For Middle Eastern investors, Kenya’s expanding macadamia exports present strategic entry points. With cold storage and logistics infrastructure serving this trade offering complementary investment opportunities.

Ensuring global quality standards will be achieved through the board’s commitment to technical training and extension services focused on Good Agricultural Practices.

Further, the board plans to strengthen collaboration with public and private-sector actors across the macadamia value chain, including processors, exporters, and farmer organizations.

Muthathai noted that the association will serve as the primary point of contact for official communications and sector engagements as it works toward establishing a permanent secretariat.

The new board thanked the Interim Committee for guiding the association during the transition period. “Their stewardship has helped maintain engagement with industry stakeholders while laying the groundwork for the new board,” Muthathai said.

As Kenya solidifies its status among the world’s top macadamia producers, the association’s renewed focus on strategic partnerships, technical capacity, and export expansion positions the industry for sustained growth.

The board’s leadership arrives at a moment when global demand for premium nuts continues rising, and Kenya’s ability to capture that demand depends on coordinated action across the value chain.

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