NAIROBI: In an effort to curb the export of immature macadamia nuts, the Kenyan government has announced a ban on harvesting the crop from November 2, 2024, to March 1, 2025. The Ministry of Agriculture has outlined measures to enforce this directive, including revoking licenses of violators and increasing inspections and surveillance to eliminate unscrupulous business practices. According to Kenya News Agency, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Dr. Andrew Karanja stated that the decision was made after consultations with industry stakeholders. The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has been tasked with ensuring compliance. Dr. Karanja highlighted the importance of the macadamia industry to Kenya, noting that 95% of its production is exported. He cited a drastic drop in farm gate prices, from Sh180 per kilogram in 2019 to Sh30-40/kg in early 2023, as a key concern. To address the price instability and manage excess stock, the Ministry lifted a previous ban on raw macadamia exports, allowing a one-year export w indow starting November 3, 2023. Dr. Karanja emphasized that exporting processed macadamia nuts is more beneficial for Kenya than exporting raw nuts. To support the ban, dealers are required to submit their current stock for inspection by November 15, 2024, and a minimum guaranteed price of Sh100 per kilogram will be implemented. Dr. Karanja also noted that the National and County Governments will collaborate to enforce existing agricultural laws and regulations to ensure the industry's success.