Macadamia farming is among the most underrated but well-paying products. In recent years, it has emerged as a very lucrative venture, especially in central parts of Kenya. Macadamia nuts, are mainly grown in central province, the most dominant counties are: Murang’a, Meru, Kirinyaga, Kiambu and also Nyeri. The trees are doing well in this place because they are the places where the tree was first introduced when it came into Kenya. It is also partially grown in other areas such as Machakos, Bungoma, Kitale, Kakamega and Taita Taveta.
How long does a Macadamia tree take to mature?
It takes about 4 to 5 years for an organic macadamia tree to bear fruit. This happens after the grafted seedlings are fully hardened and distributed to the smallholders. The most amazing thing about these trees is that as the mature, their production increases. Until it reaches its optimum at around ten years, it is a good investment. The macadamia seedlings cost between ksh. 300 to ksh 500.
How many times can you harvest Macadamia nuts in a year?
During the wet weather, you collect your macadamia nuts every 2 to 4 weeks. There is also late fall that happens during the harvesting period, but it is important to focus your efforts on the periods when the weather is wet.
How Kenyan Farmers are making millions of money from Macadamia
The macadamia nut is the most expensive nut in the world, and it retails at different prices. I kilograms retails starting from ksh. 3000 to ksh. 4000, it depends on whether you need fresh macadamia or roasted macadamia. In Kenya, between 90% to 95% of macadamia nuts are produced for export. Kenyan macadamia nuts are exported to various countries worldwide, including the United States, China, and Europe. These countries value the high quality and rich flavor of Kenyan macadamia nuts, making them a sought-after commodity in international markets. If you want to export, you must register as an exporter and acquire a manufacturing license.
How much profit per acre is there from macadamia farming in Kenya?
It is estimated that an acre of macadamia plantation can yield about 5600kg, which may translate to an income of Ksh. 560,000 per harvest. The national government also plans to increase the price per kilogram. This means that per year, it is easier for a farmer to make more than Ksh. 5 million, which is how profitable these nuts are.
