Bʏ Mᴀsɪʟᴀ Kᴀɴʏɪɴɢɪ
November 20, 2025
East Africa’s horticulture industry is entering a dynamic new chapter, one defined by scientific breakthroughs, bold policy shifts, continental collaboration, and the remarkable individuals who continue to shape the sector’s future.
Over the past month, several developments have signaled both progress and promise for growers, exporters, and agribusiness leaders across the region.
In Kenya, Corteva Agriscience marked a major milestone with the launch of Verpixo® fungicide, a next-generation solution giving growers a powerful new tool against powdery mildew. This innovation arrives at a crucial time, as farmers continue to navigate increasing disease pressures driven by climate variability and rising consumer expectations for clean, high-quality produce. The Nairobi launch, attended by industry stakeholders, agronomists, and flower growers, highlighted the growing role of science-driven crop protection in securing East Africa’s reputation for excellence.
Kenya also notched another historic achievement with the first-ever EU export of Petunia and Calibrachoa young plants. This breakthrough underscores the country’s expanding capacity in high-value ornamental plant exports and strengthens its position as a global horticultural hub.
Behind these successes lies a continuous push for skills and regulatory advancement. Recently, Kenyan plant breeders received capacity-building support from KEPHIS, aimed at strengthening plant variety protection, biotechnology oversight, and the development of improved cultivars for both domestic and export markets. In an industry driven by innovation, empowering breeders remains essential for competitiveness.
Even as we celebrate progress, experts are raising critical concerns. Agricultural researchers and environmental health advocates have sounded the alarm on the continued use of toxic pesticides, calling for a transition to safer, more sustainable crop protection strategies. Their message is clear: the future of horticulture must balance productivity with the well-being of farmers, consumers, and ecosystems.
National leadership is also weighing in. During recent engagements with the sector, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi urged bold investments and technology-driven transformation in agriculture. His emphasis on mechanization, digital tools, and modern production systems reflects a broader policy shift toward efficiency and global competitiveness.
Across the border, Tanzania is preparing to take the continental spotlight as Arusha hosts Africa’s premier annual horticulture expo. The event is expected to attract growers, buyers, and innovators from around the world, offering a platform for learning, networking, and showcasing Africa’s fast-rising role in global horticulture.
Smallholder gains are emerging as well. In Kenya, the new minimum price rule for macadamia has brought relief to growers who have long struggled with market volatility and low farm-gate returns. The reform signals progress in efforts to stabilize value chains and enhance farmer livelihoods.
Amid these changes, the industry pauses to honor the memory of Eric Kumunguyi, a respected leader remembered for his integrity, vision, and deep commitment to advancing Agro-chemical sector in Kenya. His example reminds us that behind every breakthrough and policy shift is the human leadership that makes progress possible.
As the sector celebrates innovation, mourns loss, and looks ahead to unprecedented opportunity, one thing is clear: East Africa’s horticulture industry is in a season of transformation. From groundbreaking fungicides and historic plant exports to policy reforms and capacity building, the momentum is strong and the future, promising.