Kenyans can now harvest and trade macadamia nuts as the Agriculture and Food Authority lifted the seasonal ban on these activities effective February 1, 2026. Between January 19 and January 23 2026, the Agriculture and Food Authority conducted a nationwide maturity surveillance exercise to assess the readiness of macadamia nuts ahead of the new harvest season. Kenya remains one of Africa’s leading producers of macadamia nuts, with key growing counties including Embu, Meru, Kiambu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga and Nyeri, alongside emerging production areas in parts of the Rift Valley. Macadamia nuts are among Kenya’s most valuable horticultural exports, earning foreign exchange and supporting rural livelihoods. Officials say these controls are necessary to protect long term market access and support the continued growth of Kenya’s macadamia industry.