The Makueni County Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with TradeMark Africa (TMA) to establish a state-of-the-art Export Supply Hub (ESH), marking a significant milestone for the region’s horticultural sector.
Signed on Monday by Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr, the agreement aims to reduce post-harvest losses, enhance market access and elevate Makueni’s standing as a leading exporter of mangoes, avocados and French beans. The initiative is part of the EU-funded Business Environment and Export Enhancing Programme (EU-BEEEP), implemented by TMA.
Makueni produces around 245,000 metric tonnes of mangoes each year, yet over 40% is lost due to limited access to markets. The new Hub is expected to address this challenge by streamlining aggregation, cold storage, processing and packaging, all within a centralized facility. It will also integrate digital traceability systems to assure buyers of product origin and safety.
Governor Kilonzo described the development as a “game-changer” for local growers and exporters, not only in Makueni but also in neighboring counties such as Machakos, Kajiado and Taita-Taveta.
“The Export Supply Hub will not only reduce losses but also create a sustainable ecosystem that meets international sanitary and phytosanitary standards,” he said.
The facility will be constructed on land provided by the County Government and linked to the Standard Gauge Railway for efficient and eco-friendly logistics. Regional aggregation centers will support consistent supply to the Hub, while on-site inspection and certification will help meet export standards.
TMA’s Country Director, Lillian Mwai-Ndegwa, emphasized the Hub’s broader impact: “This Hub is about much more than market access. It’s about building resilience, sustainability and competitiveness for our smallholder farmers.”
In addition to infrastructure, the partnership includes farmer training and support programs to align production practices with international export requirements.
Also present at the signing were County CECM for Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperative Development Joyce Mutua; Chief Officers Dr. Victoria Kyalo and Japheth Kiminza; County Solicitor Jennifer Kyumwa; and representatives from East Africa Market Development Associates Subira Mukami and Eunice Ngina.
Source: Makueni