Kenya is set to host the sixth Avocado Africa 2026 edition bringing together major international countries to the much awaited conference.
Speaking to the media, Avocado Society of Kenya CEO Ernest Muthomi said the four-day event will be held from May 26 to 29 at the Sarit Expo Centre and is expected to attract key players in the avocado, fruits and vegetables industry from across the world.
He noted that farmers, exporters, investors, policymakers, researchers, development partners and agribusiness leaders from Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas will attend the conference.
Muthomi added that the conference aims to strengthen Africa’s position in the global fresh produce market by promoting trade, innovation and sustainable agricultural practices.
Further he noted the conference will provide a platform for stakeholders to explore opportunities in the rapidly growing avocado sector and other horticultural products.
The CEO at the same time noted that the event will feature high-level conferences, technical workshops, panel discussions and business-to-business networking sessions focused on trade expansion, sustainable production, value addition, financing and access to international markets.
“Avocado Africa 2026 is more than an exhibition. It is a gateway for trade, innovation and investment across the avocado value chain because Africa has a unique opportunity to strengthen its position as a global supplier of high-quality fresh produce,” said Mr Muthomi.
The senior officer further said Kenya remains one of Africa’s leading avocado exporters, with the crop emerging as a major foreign exchange earner driven by rising global demand.
He emphasized that the country has continued to expand its export markets while attracting increased investment in agribusiness and value addition.
The conference comes at a time when African countries are seeking to increase agricultural exports and strengthen food systems amid changing global trade dynamics.
Participants attending the summit are expected to discuss emerging trends in the horticulture sector, including climate-smart agriculture, quality compliance, logistics, market diversification and post-harvest handling.
The event is also expected to provide smallholder farmers and local exporters with an opportunity to connect with international buyers and investors in a bid to expand market access.
Mr Muthomi called on stakeholders across the value chain to take advantage of the conference to build partnerships and explore new opportunities in the sector.
He said the event will not only showcase Africa’s potential in horticulture but also highlight the importance of sustainable farming and value addition in boosting farmers’ incomes and economic growth.
“The avocado industry continues to create jobs and improve livelihoods for thousands of farmers across Kenya and the continent. This conference will help unlock more opportunities for growth and investment,” he said.
Muthomi said the Avocado Society of Kenya has been at the forefront of championing quality standards, compliance, market access and sustainable growth in the avocado industry.
“Over the years, the society has worked closely with farmers, exporters and government agencies to promote best agricultural practices and strengthen Kenya’s competitiveness in the global market,” he added.
