More than 30,000 metric tons of raw macadamia nuts stayed on farms and in stores after the three‑month export window closed, creating mounting losses for growers.

The window, authorised by the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) from July to October, allowed only 700 metric tons to be shipped, far short of the 14,000‑tonne target.

AFA Acting Director‑General Calistus Kundu reported that 14 companies moved the 700 tonnes through the Port of Mombasa by the October 10 deadline.

Farmers had expected the temporary lifting of export restrictions to open international markets, raise farm‑gate prices and ease the glut that has depressed earnings.

Kenya Macadamia Growers Association vice‑chairman Mureithi Gichabi urged the government to extend the export period so dealers can meet contractual obligations.

Gichabi blamed the regulator for not facilitating the process, noting that exporters incurred costs to assemble and present nuts for inspection as required by regulations.

The Nut Traders Association of Kenya’s vice‑chairman Njiru Kathangu called for predictable policies, including regular lifting of the ban on raw nut exports to China, to give farmers alternative markets.

Stakeholders such as Taita Taveta’s Moses Karasha argued that the Agriculture and Food Authority Act should be amended to remove legal restrictions on raw‑nut exports, citing local processors’ inability to absorb the country’s annual production of about 75,000 metric tons.

In Nakuru, large‑estate representative Jacinta Mwai said more than 5,000 metric tons were awaiting shipment and warned that continued policy uncertainty harms investor confidence and Kenya’s reputation abroad.

Macadamia value‑chain expert Peter Mwangi noted the crisis mirrors a similar glut three years ago, when excess produce forced farmers to sell nuts informally, prompting a temporary export ban lift by former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi.

He identified farmers in Murang’a, Nyeri, Embu, Meru, Kirinyaga, Uasin Gishu and Baringo as among those most affected by the market uncertainty.

Stakeholders are now pressing for urgent policy reforms, including a possible government‑backed fund similar to the Coffee Cherry Advance Revolving Fund, to support processors and ensure timely farmer payments.