Makueni County is set to become a powerhouse in global horticulture trade following the signing of a groundbreaking agreement between the County Government and TradeMark Africa (TMA) to establish a high-tech Export Supply Hub (ESH). 

The initiative, targeting farmers in Makueni and neighbouring counties, Machakos, Kajiado, and Taita-Taveta, aims to overhaul the region’s export capacity by eliminating logistical hurdles and ensuring compliance with international standards.

Funded under the European Union’s Business Environment and Export Enhancement Programme (EU-BEEEP), the Hub will be a one-stop centre for aggregation, processing, inspection, and certification of horticultural produce. It is designed to meet the increasingly strict quality and sustainability demands of global markets, especially the European Union.

Farmers will benefit from cutting-edge infrastructure, including sorting, grading, cold storage, and packaging facilities, all connected to the Kenya Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) for seamless cargo movement. With post-harvest losses for mangoes in Makueni currently as high as 40%, the ESH promises a radical reduction in waste while ensuring year-round supply through local aggregation points.

“Agriculture is central to our country’s economy,” said Governor Mutula Kilonzo Junior. “Through this MoU, we are strategically positioning our farmers for better global market access, helping them command premium prices and significantly improve their livelihoods by cutting down on waste and inefficiencies.”

The facility will also cater to emerging high-value crops such as avocados and French beans. Beyond infrastructure, the program includes comprehensive technical training and support to elevate farming practices and encourage value addition.

With Kenya’s horticulture exports reaching $1.06 billion in 2024, the ESH is expected to significantly boost regional earnings, create jobs, attract investment, and position Makueni as a key player in the global supply chain. As Kenya eyes a stronger foothold in international trade, this Hub may well be the fresh start the country’s horticultural sector has long awaited.