AFA crackdown targets malpractices threatening Kenya's macadamia industry
AFA has announced intensified surveillance in macadamia-growing regions, processing facilities, and export points.
The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has sounded the alarm over rising illegal activities in Kenya's macadamia industry, warning that those involved in harvesting immature nuts, unauthorised trading, or smuggling will face severe consequences, including prosecution.
The agency, which oversees the nuts and oil crops sector, says routine surveillance and reports from stakeholders have exposed widespread malpractices threatening the quality and reputation of Kenyan macadamia.
More To Read
"We have noted with concern the increasing cases of premature harvesting, unlicensed trading, and smuggling, all of which undermine the industry's sustainability," AFA said in a statement released on Friday.
Key violations include the harvesting of immature nuts, the sale of nuts by unlicensed individuals, and the mixing of low-quality rejected nuts with high-quality ones before resale. Smuggling of in-shell macadamia nuts out of the country has also been flagged as a major issue.
Export regulations
The authority reminded stakeholders that Kenyan law strictly regulates the export of macadamia. Section 43 of the AFA Act prohibits exporting in-shell nuts without written permission from the Cabinet Secretary, while traders must apply for export permits through the KenTrade system.
The law also requires that only mature nuts be harvested, handled, and processed, ensuring quality standards are maintained.
AFA has announced intensified surveillance in macadamia-growing regions, processing facilities, and export points, working alongside county governments, law enforcement, and other agencies.
"Anyone found operating without a valid license, trading in immature nuts, or recycling rejected nuts into the supply chain will face legal action, including license suspension or revocation," the agency warned.
The authority has also urged all farmers, traders, and exporters to comply with regulations to protect Kenya's macadamia industry.
"It is in everyone's best interest to uphold quality standards. Non-compliance will not be tolerated," AFA stated.
Stakeholders are encouraged to report any illegal activities to AFA via email at [email protected]
Top Stories Today
