The Kenyan government has officially reclassified cocoa, mung beans (ndengu), and jute (mrenda) as “Scheduled Crops” in a move aimed at boosting agricultural exports and diversifying the economy. Announced in a Gazette Notice on November 15, the decision is part of President William Ruto’s strategy to increase Kenya’s presence in lucrative international markets, particularly in Europe and Asia.
Why It Matters
This new classification will allow the government to regulate and promote the production of these crops through targeted policies. Under the oversight of the Agricultural and Food Authority (AFA), the reclassification will help stabilize markets, ensure consistent production, and provide farmers with crucial support such as access to credit, farm inputs, and technical assistance.
The government’s push to boost agricultural exports comes at a time when Kenya is working to reduce its trade deficit. In 2023, Kenya’s total exports amounted to Ksh 906 billion, contributing about 21% to the national budget. By diversifying export crops, President Ruto hopes to generate more revenue and improve the country’s trade balance.
Key Crops Targeted for Growth
Cocoa: While still a small player in the global cocoa market, Kenya’s cocoa industry has been growing steadily. In 2022, Kenya exported approximately Ksh 2.45 billion ($18.9 million) worth of cocoa, with key markets including Indonesia, India, and Spain. Exports to Indonesia, for example, grew by 80% between 2021 and 2022. The government aims to expand these markets and increase production to position Kenya as a stronger competitor in the cocoa industry.
Mung Beans (Ndengu): Mung beans have seen a surge in demand, with Kenya exporting 8.7 million kilograms in 2023, a 70% increase from the previous year. This growth has been driven by markets in Vietnam, the UAE, and Thailand, generating revenue of approximately Ksh 2.9 billion ($6.85 million). With the reclassification, Kenya plans to further increase its mung bean exports and establish a stronger foothold in the global legume market.
Jute (Mrenda): Jute, a fiber crop used for making bags and textiles, has also shown potential for growth in export markets. The government’s new policies aim to boost the production and export of jute, benefiting both farmers and the wider agricultural economy.
Looking Ahead
This reclassification aligns with President Ruto’s broader vision to transform Kenya’s agricultural sector by expanding the range of crops exported globally. By elevating these emerging crops alongside established exports like tea, coffee, and sugarcane, the government hopes to diversify the country’s agricultural output and create more sustainable revenue streams.
The move is expected to increase productivity, provide farmers with better market access, and ultimately support Kenya’s long-term economic growth through enhanced agricultural exports.
