Impact of Climate Change on Kenyan Avocado Harvest Timings

Kenya’s avocado season began on February 14 but is experiencing harvest delays due to climate change. Despite disruptions, demand remains strong, and avocado acreage has increased. The quality of avocados has improved, while growers adopt new technologies to overcome challenges in export logistics.

The Kenyan avocado season commenced on February 14, starting with green-skinned varieties before transitioning to the Hass variety. This year, adverse climate conditions are contributing to disruptions in the timing of peak harvests. Despite this, Hassan Nandwa, Managing Director of Fawakih, expresses optimism for the season as growers strive to adapt to these changes.

Nandwa notes that climate change has significantly affected avocado flowering patterns, resulting in a one-month delay in production, especially for the Hass variety. Previously, peak volumes were typically reached in March, but this year it is expected to occur in April. However, he asserts that the quality of avocados remains high, with improvements seen each year.

At the season’s outset, demand for avocados continues to be robust, despite global trade disruptions. Nandwa emphasizes that the stability of the Kenyan avocado brand stems from consistent quality, which allows access to markets in Europe, the Middle East, and the Far East. The demand reassures growers, leading to an increase in avocado acreage from 30,000 to 34,000 hectares this season.

Additionally, the ongoing crisis in the Red Sea poses challenges for Kenyan exports this year. Nandwa remarks on the industry’s adaptation efforts, including the use of new technologies to delay fruit ripening, such as active CA containers and ethylene absorbers. He believes these challenges have prompted improvements in the quality of produce offered by Kenyan growers and exporters.

In summary, the Kenyan avocado season faces challenges due to climate change, resulting in delayed harvests, particularly for the Hass variety. However, the commitment to quality remains strong, and demand appears stable. The increase in avocado acreage also reflects growers’ confidence in the market, despite external disruptions. The industry’s adaptation to technological innovations further enhances the quality of Kenyan avocados.

Original Source: www.freshplaza.com