Bʏ Mᴀsɪʟᴀ Kᴀɴʏɪɴɢɪ
In this week’s issue of the Floriweek newsletter, we travel through key events shaping the sector, from Naivasha’s fairgrounds to European policy halls. The picture is of an industry rich with promise but also facing challenges that demand urgent attention.
The Naivasha Horticultural Fair (NHFair) once again proved a marketplace of ideas and innovation. Yet beneath the vibrancy, difficult questions remain. Kenya’s flower industry employs thousands of women, but wage gaps, limited leadership opportunities, and weak representation in decision-making still hold back true empowerment. Progress in this area is not just a social obligation; it is a business imperative.
Innovation is driving change. Vaselife International B.V. has entered a new chapter of independent ownership, advancing sustainable flower care solutions. At the same time, the European Union’s Green Deal is reshaping Kenya’s exports, making compliance with sustainability standards central to market access.
Markets themselves are evolving. Roses still dominate, but summer flowers such as alstroemerias and gypsophila are gaining traction, offering smallholder farmers resilience, affordability, and growing demand.
NHFair 2025 reflected these tensions: dazzling showcases alongside frank discussions on sustainability, inclusivity, and compliance. The message is clear; Kenya’s floriculture stands at a crossroads. Empower women, embrace innovation, diversify crops, and the sector can continue leading globally while delivering growth at home.