Farmers in Nakuru County received a major boost after the county government distributed 91,000 avocado seedlings in a fresh drive to promote income-generating crops.
The initiative, led by the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture Leonard Bor, is part of a broader strategy to increase avocado production and tap into Kenya’s fast-growing export market. According to Bor, avocado farming offers a reliable, high-value source of income for local farmers.
Speaking at the distribution event held in Kuresoi North Sub-County, Bor confirmed that agricultural extension officers have been dispatched across all wards to provide farmers with technical support and promote modern, sustainable farming practices.
“In the previous financial year, we issued 60,000 seedlings across 44 agricultural wards. The overwhelming success of that project encouraged us to raise the number to 91,000 this year,” he said.
To further support farmers, the agriculture department is organizing field days aimed at promoting climate-smart agriculture. These training sessions are designed to improve food security while helping farmers adapt to shifting weather patterns.
Kenya remains a key player in the global avocado trade, ranking second in Africa and sixth worldwide. The country exports most of its avocados to Europe and the Middle East, with smallholder farmers responsible for 70 percent of total production.
Local farmers have welcomed the county’s efforts, viewing the avocado program as a long-term investment in both family income and food security.