COMESA–EU Forum Charts Path to Grow Africa’s Horticulture Exports
The COMESA–EU Horticulture Connect Forum commenced in Nairobi this morning with a renewed emphasis on the enhancement of regional cooperation, digital transformation, and value chain development to increase Africa's horticulture exports.
Held on the sidelines of the 24th COMESA Summit of Heads of State and Government, the forum convened ministers, business leaders, and development partners to deliberate on strategies for enhancing trade integration and agribusiness across the continent.
The opening was presided over by Mutahi Kagwe, the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, who outlined the government's initiatives to modernise the horticulture sector and improve its global competitiveness. CS Kagwe confirmed that the sector continues to be a critical component of economic expansion, providing livelihoods for millions of individuals and producing substantial foreign exchange earnings.
In 2024, Kenya's horticulture industry generated KES 137 billion in revenue from exports to more than 70 countries. The country exports more than 60 million flower stems per day, which accounts for approximately 40% of the total volume of roses sold in the European Union. The industry directly employs more than 200,000 individuals and indirectly supports an estimated four million individuals through associated value chains.
The government has implemented a variety of initiatives to strengthen the sector, including the National Horticulture Traceability System, which was launched in April 2025, new trade agreements that ensure duty-free and quota-free access to European markets, and partnerships like Italy's Lab Innova Programme, which facilitates exporter training and the establishment of a Horticulture Centre of Excellence.
CS Kagwe stated that the government is still engaged in collaboration with COMESA Member States to eliminate tariff and non-tariff barriers that impede cross-border trade. Harmonisation of standards, digital customs systems, and improved logistics are expected to ease the movement of goods and enhance market access.
Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui highlighted the importance of integrating horticulture into regional and global value chains. He noted that COMESA, through the EU-funded Regional Enterprise Competitiveness and Access to Markets Programme (RECAMP), continue to strengthen SME competitiveness, support compliance with sanitary and phytosanitary standards, and promote direct linkages between African exporters and European buyers.
Chileshe Kapwepwe, the Secretary General of COMESA, stated that agriculture remained a critical component of the region's economic development and that horticulture continued to present one of the strongest opportunities for inclusive growth. She said the COMESA–EU partnership played a critical role in strengthening regional trade linkages, promoting sustainable value chains, and positioning African farmers for international competitiveness.
The forum provided a platform for engagement between African exporters and European buyers, showcasing innovation, technology, and investment opportunities in the horticulture sector.
A comprehensive report from the forum will be submitted to the 24th COMESA Heads of State and Government Summit for consideration and adoption. The report will propose measures to expand digital traceability, remove trade barriers, and promote climate-smart agricultural practices across the region.
The meeting concluded with a commitment by governments, the private sector, and development partners to deepen cooperation, strengthen value chains, and position COMESA as a leading hub for sustainable agricultural trade.