Macadamia farmers in the Central region are facing significant challenges as the prices of their produce continue to plummet amidst a global economic recession and overproduction.
The distressing situation has led some farmers to consider uprooting their macadamia trees and replacing them with more profitable crops. Many of these farmers blame the government for failing to secure a stable market for their macadamia produce, leaving them in a state of neglect.
Some farmers have resorted to grinding the macadamia nuts into animal feed for their livestock or selling them to tea factories for combustion. However, the overall market conditions and low demand have contributed to the drop in prices.
In the past, macadamia farmers enjoyed higher prices of between Sh200 and Sh120 per kilogramme. However, the current prices have plummeted to as low as Sh45 per kilogramme from processors and Sh15 to Sh20 per kilogramme from brokers.
Farmers are frustrated with the lack of competition in the market, attributing the low prices to a monopoly. Mr. Peter Muchemi, a farmer, expressed his concerns about the inadequate prices, stating that they do not cover production costs.
Furthermore, the limited number of buyers in the market has left farmers struggling to negotiate higher prices for their produce. This dire situation has prompted some farmers to uproot their macadamia trees and pursue alternative ventures due to the inability to cover expenses.
The peak season for macadamia nuts is typically April, when harvesting takes place. However, due to a lack of buyers, the harvest has been delayed, affecting not only the current season but also the upcoming one.
The government’s attempts to address the issue, such as temporarily lifting the ban on the sale of unprocessed macadamia nuts, have not led to improved prices or market conditions. The farmers’ grievances extend to the quality of the nuts being rejected by buyers, causing further financial strain.
The challenges faced by macadamia farmers have broader implications, impacting livelihoods, economic opportunities, and local communities. The lack of support and market access has led to a decline in farmers’ income, affecting their ability to support their families and invest in their farms.
In conclusion, the plight of macadamia farmers in the Central region underscores the urgent need for government intervention and support to address the challenges they are facing. The current economic conditions, coupled with overproduction and limited market access, have led to a significant decline in macadamia prices, putting the livelihoods of farmers at risk. It is essential for stakeholders to come together to find sustainable solutions that can help revive the macadamia industry and provide a brighter future for these farmers.
