Agricultural Exports Hit Record High Despite Climate Shocks

Kenya’s agricultural exports reached a record Ksh212 billion in 2023, defying drought and flooding, thanks to strong global demand and value addition. Horticulture led with Ksh135 billion, followed by tea (Ksh52 billion) and coffee (Ksh8 billion). The Kenya Trade Remedies Agency reported increased shipments of processed avocado oil, macadamia nuts, and fresh berries to Europe and Asia. Government interventions—including subsidized inputs and export promotion missions—played a key role. However, smallholders still face post-harvest losses due to poor roads and storage. The Agriculture Ministry plans to invest Ksh10 billion in cold chain infrastructure in 2024. With climate change intensifying, experts stress the need for drought-tolerant crops and digital market platforms to link farmers directly to global buyers.