Pineapple Production in Kilifi, Kenya Has Been Declining Due to Poor Rainfall Patterns

Kilifi is one of the top pineapple producing regions in Kenya, but production has been declining in 2022 due to poor rainfall patterns. In Kilifi, approximately 6500 fruits are produced per acre, compared to 22,000 fruits in Kiambu county. However, in September, community-based organisations in Kilifi are only able to harvest about 6,250 fruits per acre while the prices remain unchanged from the 2021/22 season at USD 0.42/piece of Smooth Cayenne pineapple. To boost production and improve market access, the Kilifi government and MESPT have collaborated to support farmers by offering extension services, loans, market linkage, irrigation equipment, and assistance in acquiring Global GAP certification for their farms.