Kenya’s agribusiness sector is a cornerstone of its economy, contributing significantly to employment, income, and export crop earnings. The country’s diverse climate and fertile soils support the cultivation of various high value crops demand globally.
Join us on a journey through Kenya’s top export crops, exploring the regions that nurture them, the conditions that make them thrive, and the global demand that keeps their story growing.
In this article
1. Tea: Kenya’s Liquid Gold
Our first stop takes us to the green hills of Kericho and the Aberdare Ranges, where Kenya’s world-renowned tea originates. Introduced by British settlers in the early 20th century, tea quickly became Kenya’s top export crop, contributing 22% of total foreign exchange earnings annually.
Kericho’s misty mornings and volcanic soils create the perfect conditions for tea cultivation. The high altitudes ensure slow leaf growth, enriching the flavor. Kenyan black tea is a staple in over 60 countries. Its robust flavor makes it a favorite for blending, earning it a permanent spot in teabags around the globe. In 2023, Kenya exported over 500,000 metric tons, retaining its position as the largest black tea exporter globally.
Tea auctions in Mombasa are among the largest in the world, trading tea from Kenya and neighboring countries. Next time you sip a cup of tea, there’s a good chance it passed through these auctions.
2. Coffee: A Taste as Bright as the Kenyan Sun
From the slopes of Mount Kenya to the Nyeri highlands, Kenya’s Arabica coffee tells a story of heritage and meticulous craftsmanship.
Introduced in the 1890s, coffee has since become synonymous with Kenya’s agricultural identity. Coffee thrives in Kenya’s rich, acidic soils and altitudes ranging from 1,500 to 2,100 meters. The combination of warm days, cool nights, and seasonal rainfall ensures beans develop their signature bright acidity and fruity flavors.
Despite a decline in production during the 1990s, specialty coffee has fueled a resurgence. In 2024, Kenyan coffee exports reached 45,000 metric tons, valued at approximately $250 million, with the United States, Germany, and Japan as key markets.
Imagine strolling through coffee plantations in Nyeri or Kiambu, guided by farmers who explain how each cherry is handpicked at peak ripeness. The scent of freshly roasted coffee wafts through the air, inviting you to sip the very essence of Kenya.
3. Avocados: Kenya’s Green Exports
A golden sunrise over Murang’a County, the heart of Kenya’s avocado farms. Known as the “green gold” of the region, avocados have rapidly become one of Kenya’s fastest-growing exports.
Kenya’s Hass avocado is favored for its creamy texture and long shelf life. Murang’a and Kiambu Counties are the epicenters of production, thanks to their moderate temperatures and well-drained soil
Kenya exported over 85,000 metric tons of avocados in 2023, earning approximately $150 million. Key markets include Europe, the Middle East, and China, where demand for healthy fats continues to grow.
Touring an avocado farm in Murang’a offers a glimpse into sustainable farming practices. Farmers, often using organic methods, proudly showcase their trees, which produce fruit destined for dining tables worldwide.
4. Horticultural Products: Blossoming Exports
Kenya’s flowers, fruits, and vegetables are the jewels of its agricultural exports. The sight of vibrant flower farms in Naivasha, framed by Lake Naivasha and Mount Longonot, is unforgettable.
Kenya is the world’s fourth-largest exporter of cut flowers, with Europe as the primary market. In 2023, floriculture earned the country over $1.1 billion, driven by the demand for roses and carnations.
Green beans, snow peas, and mangoes are just a few examples of Kenya’s fresh produce that fills supermarket shelves globally. The country’s proximity to Europe ensures freshness, with exports valued at over $1 billion annually.
Walk among acres of roses in Naivasha, where the air is perfumed with floral sweetness. Farmers explain how precise irrigation and sustainable practices ensure each bloom is perfect for export.
5. Macadamia Nuts: A Crunchy Success Story
Nestled in the rolling hills of Embu and Meru, macadamia trees sway in the breeze, producing nuts cherished for their buttery flavor and health benefits.
Kenya has become a top-five global exporter of macadamia nuts, with production reaching 41,000 metric tons in 2024. Key markets include China, the United States, and Germany, where the nuts are celebrated as a superfood.
Macadamia farming is deeply rooted in family traditions. Visiting these farms offers a chance to crack open a nut and experience the taste that’s winning over the world.
6. Pyrethrum: A Natural Protector
In the cool highlands of Nakuru and Nyandarua, fields of daisy-like pyrethrum flowers bloom. Known for their natural insecticidal properties, these flowers are an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides.
Pyrethrum exports are growing as global consumers prioritize sustainable pest control. In 2023, Kenya exported over 2,000 metric tons, with applications ranging from agriculture to household products.
The sight of pyrethrum flowers dancing in the wind is enchanting. Farmers demonstrate how petals are dried and processed into powders and oils for export
Conclusion
Kenya’s agricultural journey is a story of resilience, innovation, and connection to the land. Each crop is more than an export, it’s a reflection of the regions, people, and traditions that make Kenya extraordinary. From the green hills of Kericho to the sun-soaked farms of Murang’a, these destinations beckon travelers to experience the heart of Kenya.
So why not plan your visit? Walk the fields, meet the farmers, and taste the stories behind Kenya’s top crops. You’ll leave not just with memories but with a profound appreciation for the land that feeds the world.
