Kenya’s avocado season, starting February 14, faces climate disruptions that delay peak harvest timing. Managing Director of Fawakih, Hassan Nandwa, expresses confidence in adapting to these changes while maintaining quality. Despite challenges, demand remains steady, and growers are expanding avocado acreage. Technologies are being implemented to enhance ripening management and quality amidst ongoing global trade challenges.
The avocado season in Kenya commenced on February 14 with the green-skinned varieties, with the Hass variety expected to follow later. However, the current season faces disruptions due to adverse climate conditions affecting peak harvest timings. Managing Director of Fawakih, Hassan Nandwa, remains optimistic, stating that the long-standing avocado industry has equipped growers with resilience against changing climate patterns.
Nandwa notes that this year’s climate change significantly influenced the timing of avocado flowering, delaying the Hass variety’s season by approximately one month. Traditionally, peak harvests occur in March, but he now projects large volumes will manifest in April. Despite this shift, the quality of Kenyan avocados continues to improve, adhering to market standards.
As the season begins, the demand for avocados remains robust despite global trade disruptions. Nandwa affirms that Kenyan avocados retain a strong position in the markets of Europe, the Middle East, and the Far East, driven by consistent quality. Notably, the area planted with avocados has increased from 30,000 to 34,000 hectares, reflecting growers’ confidence in sustainable demand.
The ongoing conflict in the Red Sea poses a challenge to Kenyan avocado exports this season. Nandwa highlights that Fawakih is adopting advanced technologies like active controlled atmosphere containers and ethylene absorbers to prolong fruit ripening. This necessity for adaptation has enhanced the quality of exports from Kenya, offering growers new insights into better practices in fruit management.
In summary, the Kenyan avocado industry is navigating significant challenges posed by climate change, resulting in delayed harvest timings and influenced flowering cycles. Yet, the sector’s commitment to quality and adaptability, alongside growing global demand, continues to underpin its resilience and expansion. Innovations in technology are being harnessed to improve product quality and manage export challenges effectively.
Original Source: www.freshplaza.com
