November 11, 2025 — Nairobi

Kenya’s Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has announced a temporary ban on the harvesting and trade of domestically produced macadamia nuts, effective from December 1, 2025, to February 15, 2026. The restriction covers all actors across the macadamia value chain, including processors, exporters, importers and marketing agents.

AFA said the suspension aims to ensure nuts are harvested only at optimal maturity to boost quality and strengthen the competitiveness of Kenyan macadamias in local and international markets. In a notice dated November 10, 2025, AFA Director General Dr. Bruno Linyiru said a recent phenological survey showed much of the crop remains in the maturation stage, justifying the temporary halt.

“The Authority hereby notifies all macadamia value chain actors that harvesting and trade of domestically produced macadamia nuts shall not be permitted from 1st December 2025 to 15th February 2026,” Dr. Linyiru said.

The existing ban on exporting raw, in-shell macadamias remains in force. AFA has urged full compliance from stakeholders and reiterated its commitment to supporting sustainable practices that preserve Kenya’s standing as a leading macadamia producer.