Njeri Irungu,
By Njeri Irungu,
15 Jan 2025
Nairobi, Kenya.
The Avocado Society of Kenya has welcomed the establishment of a Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) liaison office in Dubai, terming it a major breakthrough for avocado exporters who have for years grappled with delayed payments and costly trade disputes.
Speaking during the announcement, Avocado Society Chief Executive Officer Muthomi Ernest said the Dubai office would play a critical role in protecting Kenyan exporters from financial losses, particularly those arising from non-payment by overseas buyers.
“Our people have been losing a lot of money, especially through non-payment claims from international markets,” Muthomi said. “This office in Dubai is a game changer for the avocado sector.”
He noted that the society will work closely with KNCCI to ensure the liaison office acts as a dependable bridge between Kenyan exporters and buyers in the Middle East. The presence of a physical office, he said, is expected to enhance accountability, guarantee prompt payments, reduce trade disputes and restore confidence in Kenyan avocado exports.
Beyond dispute resolution, Muthomi said the Dubai office will also spearhead marketing and branding efforts for Kenyan avocados in the Middle East, a highly competitive market dominated by multiple global suppliers.
“We are not the only players in that market. We must deliberately tell Kenya’s story,” he said, adding that stronger branding and visibility would lead to better prices, higher export volumes and increased earnings for farmers and exporters.
Muthomi revealed that the idea of establishing an overseas liaison office originated from members of the Avocado Society, driven by the need for a practical solution to persistent export challenges. He said KNCCI’s decision to operationalise the Dubai office offers timely relief to exporters.
He urged exporters and organisations that are not members of KNCCI to join the chamber and take advantage of initiatives aimed at safeguarding exports and expanding access to international markets.
“When a good idea is being implemented, the best thing to do is to support it and benefit from it,” he said.
The Avocado Society also pledged to provide technical support through the Dubai office, including quality assurance, inspections and guidance on compliance with export protocols required in the avocado trade.
Muthomi disclosed that more than 160 registered avocado exporters currently ship produce to Dubai, noting that the new office adds a critical layer of security and accountability.
“It is reassuring to know that there is now an office we can call and get an immediate response whenever there is a complaint,” he said.
With the avocado export season set to begin next month, Muthomi expressed optimism that exporters are now better protected than ever before.
“Due diligence has been done,” he said. “Anyone who ignores this opportunity does so at their own risk.”
