NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenya’s floriculture industry, already a global leader in cut flower exports, is set to expand its reach to emerging markets in Asia, driven by government-industry collaboration and strategic investments.
Speaking at the Kenya Flower Council Rift Regional Meeting in Naivasha, Acting Director for Domestic Trade Elizabeth Miguda, representing Principal Secretary for Trade Regina Ombam, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing policy, regulatory, and logistical challenges to enhance the sector’s competitiveness.
Kenya currently supplies major flower markets in Europe, the Middle East, and other emerging destinations, supporting over 150,000 direct workers and generating approximately USD 850 million in export earnings in 2024.
Kenya ranks among the world’s leading exporters of cut flowers, supplying major markets in Europe, the Middle East and emerging markets.The industry drives livelihoods for over 150,000 direct workers and generated approximately USD 850 million in export earnings in 2024.
Clement Tulezi, Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya Flower Council, said the industry has the potential to increase annual export revenue to Sh150 billion and create up to 250,000 jobs within the next decade.
He noted that this growth could be achieved by expanding production acreage from 5,300 hectares to 10,000 hectares and diversifying export markets to countries such as India and South Korea.
The CEO further emphasised the importance of strengthening cold chain systems, improving physical infrastructure, and providing targeted tax incentives and policy support to attract greater investment into floriculture.
The regional meeting gathered farm owners, managers, logistics companies, and industry associations to deliberate on strategies to drive the sector’s growth and ensure Kenya maintains its competitive edge in the global flower market.
With rising global demand for high-quality flowers, Kenya’s floriculture sector is poised for significant expansion, promising economic growth and more employment opportunities for local communities.
