Horticulture in Kenya: Lessons from the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The horticulture sector is fundamental to Kenya’s economy and its citizens’ livelihoods. However, global connectivity and high perishability make the sector vulnerable to shocks. The Covid-19 pandemic and related policy measures impacted the sector in multiple ways, with an estimated US$3m lost per day during lockdowns. In response, the state and business worked together to analyse issues and develop solutions, facilitated by digital technologies. This Policy Briefing identifies lessons from this experience, focused on the French bean and avocado subsectors. The aim is to build knowledge that can be applied to new opportunities and risks affecting the resilience of the horticulture sector.