The World Macadamia Organisation (WMO) plans to support the macadamia industry in Kenya through growing demand for the superfood in the global market.
Speaking at the start of a weeklong source market familiarisation visit to Kenya, WMO Chief Executive Officer Jillian Laing, while touring Kakuzi PLC Macadamia Orchards in Murang’a County, said the organisation is working hard to increase market demand and consumption in India, China and the United States among other key markets as the positive health attributes of macadamias continue to drive consumer demand.
Laing said the organization is funded by processors in the major source markets around the world. This year, they are asking processors in Kenya to join the organisation directly. Nine Kenyan-based processors have already committed, and more discussions are underway.
The WMO raises the profile of macadamias, improves sustainability, and helps food manufacturers and consumers access relevant information about the superfood.
Kenya is currently ranked third in nut-in-shell and kernel Macadamia exports, with an expected market delivery of 44,000 metric tones this year. South Africa leads and is on track to deliver more than 88,000 metric tones, followed by Australia with a 50,830 metric tones forecast in 2024.
“I am impressed by the quality of the orchards and value-added products, including cold-pressed macadamia oil and ready-to-eat snacks packed by Kakuzi PLC. As the supply of macadamias has been increasing worldwide, product developers need easy access to information, and the industry requires clear guidelines and information to meet market expectations, which we continue to deliver,” Laing said.
The global Macadamia supply is forecast to increase from 345,700T in 2024 to 560,000T in 2029, a compound annual growth rate of 10.2%.