W8 Macadamia Update: Pamoja Boost Production in Kenya and Tanzania, Changed Rainfall Pattern and Poor Irrigation Threaten Production in Zimbabwe

Published 2024년 2월 28일

In W8 in the macadamia landscape, Switzerland-based agricultural firm Pamoja secured USD 8.5 million in funding from French asset management firm Mirova to enhance macadamia production in Kenya and Tanzania. The investment will help the company accelerate its projects in these regions and support local producers. In addition, macadamia farming in Zimbabwe faces challenges due to changed rainfall patterns and poor irrigation, but may see a boost in profits with potential buyers from Türkiye entering the market.

Pamoja Secures USD 8.5 Million Funding to Boost Macadamia Production in Kenya and Tanzania

Switzerland-based agricultural firm Pamoja secured funding of USD 8.5 million to enhance macadamia production in Kenya and Tanzania. Pamoja mainly focuses on the high-end market and has received investment from French asset management firm Mirova, a subsidiary of Natixis Investment Managers. This investment will allow the company to speed up its projects in Kenya and Tanzania, aiming to manage 6.2 thousand hectares (ha) of land to support 13 thousand small local producers by 2031.

Furthermore, 6 thousand small-scale farmers supply the firm with macadamia in Kenya through its subsidiary TenSenses. In Tanzania, Pamoja develops farms and aims to plant over 700 ha of new coffee and macadamia over the next few years through its subsidiary, Macjaro.

Insufficient Rainfall and Poor Irrigation Threaten Macadamia Production in Zimbabwe

Macadamia farming in Zimbabwe faces several challenges, such as insufficient rainfall and a lack of proper irrigation. The Macadamia Producer Association of Zimbabwe (MPAZ) reports that the changing rainfall pattern has significantly impacted yields as macadamia trees need high-level water. In addition, the poor irrigation system enabled the farmers to supply adequate water. Furthermore, the industry needs more processing machines and factories to meet the market's needs. However, the industry may witness a boost in profits this year, with potential buyers from Türkiye entering the market.