Makueni County has taken a monumental step towards transforming its agricultural sector with the official launch of a Horticultural Aggregation Center and Packhouse by Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr.
The facility is set to enhance the processing, packaging and marketing of mangoes for both export and local markets.
Strategically located near the Wote Police Station, the facility aims to revolutionize the mango value-chain in the county and serve as a central collection point for mangoes from local farmers, reducing post-harvest losses. It will also provide exporters with direct access to high-quality produce.
According to the county, export mangoes will fetch Kshs. 12 per piece, while mangoes for the local market will attract between Kshs. 15 and Kshs. 19 per kilo
Farmers have been advised by the county government to notify their ward agriculture officers or ward administrators when their mangoes are ready for harvesting adding that this will facilitate seamless linkage with buyers, maximizing profits for farmers.
The aggregation center is equipped to handle large quantities of mangoes, ensuring efficient sorting, grading and packaging for local and international markets and is expected to boost incomes for farmers by providing a direct link to exporters, who previously faced logistical challenges in sourcing quality produce from the region.
