The government has unveiled a new strategy to revive Kenya’s struggling cashew nut industry, aiming to create jobs, increase farmer incomes, and boost export earnings. Production has fallen sharply over the years, with Kenya currently producing just 13,000 tonnes of cashew nuts annually against a processing capacity of 45,000 tonnes.

In a statement shared on X on Thursday, January 8, 2026, Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture Mutahi Kagwe outlined the potential impact of the revival.

“Cashew farmers, there is hope. We have heard you, and this time we are moving with speed and seriousness,” Kagwe said.

He spoke in Kilifi County, where he explained that the turnaround strategy is anchored on research and farmer support led by the Kalrom Kulima Mtwapa Centre. Kagwe revealed that a new disease-tolerant, high-yielding cashew variety has already been developed, with 20,000 seedlings ready for distribution during the long rains. Four more improved varieties are expected within six months.

“The strategy includes seedling multiplication and distribution coordinated by AFA and county governments, supported by Kephis and extension services,” Kagwe said.

He added that farmers will receive guidance on agronomic practices, including proper spacing and intercropping with coconut, among other practices.

“Farmers will also receive guidance on good agronomic practices, including proper spacing, intercropping with coconut and mango, and top-grafting to rehabilitate ageing orchards,” the statement reads

The CS raised concerns over continued imports of cashew nuts despite Kenya’s untapped production potential. He called for faster action to scale up local farming to meet both domestic and export demand.

Processors, including East River Foods EPZ and Nuts and More Processing EPZ, cited low farm-level production as the biggest bottleneck, even though millions of shillings have been invested and thousands of farmers engaged.

Kagwe announced plans for a high-level stakeholder meeting to fast-track a sector master plan.

“A full revival of the cashew nut industry could create up to 350,000 jobs, contribute over Sh30 billion to GDP, and restore livelihoods across the Coast,” he said.

The government’s renewed focus on the cashew sector is an effort to modernise agriculture, expand local processing, and harness Kenya’s export potential while improving livelihoods for coastal farmers.