Kenya’s macadamia industry has received a significant boost following an investment from the Belgian Development Finance Institution (BIO) into Limbua Kenya, a leading processor in the sector.
The deal, whose financial details are undisclosed, is expected to strengthen the country’s position in the global macadamia market while improving the livelihoods of thousands of smallholder farmers.
Boost for Kenyan Farmers
Limbua Kenya, headquartered in Embu County, sources macadamia nuts from nearly 10,000 small-scale farmers across Kenya.
The company has built its reputation on sustainability and organic production, catering to growing international demand for ethically sourced nuts and oils.
The partnership with BIO marks a strategic move to scale operations and enhance value addition within Kenya’s agricultural sector.
BIO’s investment aligns with its mandate to support private enterprises in developing countries that foster economic growth and social impact.
According to BIO’s Regional Head for Eastern and Southern Africa, Nada Shall, the decision to back Limbua was driven by the company’s commitment to inclusive growth, sustainability, and innovation.
“We’re proud to back a company that seamlessly integrates inclusive growth, sustainability, and innovation. Limbua is contributing meaningfully to Kenya’s agro-industrial transformation while improving livelihoods for thousands of farmers. This investment aligns with BIO’s mission to foster long-term development impact in emerging markets.”
The funding will enable Limbua to expand its processing capacity, improve supply chain efficiency, and strengthen its export competitiveness.
This is particularly critical as global demand for macadamia continues to rise, with Kenya ranking among the top producers alongside South Africa and Australia.
Improved infrastructure and training programs will enable farmers to adopt sustainable practices, reduce post-harvest losses, and meet stringent international standards, ultimately leading to higher incomes and greater economic resilience for rural communities.
Kenya Government Policies on Macadamia
The government maintains a ban on exporting raw, in-shell macadamia to promote local value addition, processing, and job creation.
A seasonal harvesting ban is in effect from November 2 to March 1, aimed at preventing the export of immature nuts, safeguarding Kenya’s reputation, and promoting the quality of mature nuts.
However, the government’s ban on harvesting immature nuts protects quality but creates cash flow challenges for farmers who depend on continuous income.
In July 2025, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki emphasized the need for domestic processing to increase farmers’ incomes and support youth employment.
Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe reaffirmed this policy, as outlined in the Agriculture and Food Authority Act and the Oil Crops Regulations (2020), when marking the start of the 2025 harvest season on March 1.
Through macadamia farming, the government aims to generate over Ksh 10 billion annually, create more than 30,000 jobs, and support over 200,000 smallholder farmers.
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Farmers are encouraged to register with the Kenya Integrated Agricultural Management System (KIAMIS) to access government services efficiently, as the costs of fertilizers, pesticides, and organic certification remain high, limiting productivity for smallholders.
Limbua Kenya
Limbua Kenya is a leading processor and exporter of organic macadamia nuts, oils, and related products.
Limbua emphasizes organic production, offering macadamia nuts, oils, and dried fruits for export to premium markets in Europe, North America, and Asia.
The company operates within Kenya’s thriving macadamia sector, sourcing raw nuts from a network of nearly 10,000 smallholder farmers.
Limbua is recognized for its commitment to sustainability, fair trade, and innovation in the agro-processing sector.
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It also promotes organic certification and environmentally friendly practices among farmers.
Limbua Kenya serves high-value markets in Europe, North America, and Asia, where demand for organic and ethically sourced products remains strong.
Its emphasis on quality and traceability has positioned it as a trusted supplier in the global macadamia industry.
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