Macadamia nuts, often referred to as “nature’s gold,” have become a prized commodity globally, celebrated for their rich flavour, creamy texture, and numerous health benefits.
Kenya, a key player in macadamia production, has witnessed remarkable growth in this sector with the country’s annual output soaring from a modest 11,000 metric tons of nut-in-shell (NIS) in 2009 to an impressive 42,500 metric tons today. This nutty revolution can be attributed to a confluence of factors, including favourable weather conditions, increased plantings, and the introduction of improved macadamia varieties. The macadamia tree, native to Australia, was first introduced to Kenya in 1946 by Bob Harris.
Initially, farmers planted these trees to provide shade for their coffee bushes which produced high-quality coffee beans. However, as macadamia prices skyrocketed, some coffee farmers made the strategic decision to shift their focus towards cultivating these lucrative nuts. Today, macadamia is hailed as the new gold on Kenyan farms, fetching premium prices ranging from Sh150 to Sh200 per kilogram. Amidst this thriving macadamia industry, Exotic EPZ, a women-owned company founded in 2017, stands out as a beacon of success and empowerment.
Led by Jane Maigua, the CEO and co-founder, Exotic EPZ has redefined entrepreneurship and community impact. Drawing inspiration from her parents—a farmer mother and a bus driver father—Jane has channelled her passion for business into a thriving enterprise. Exotic EPZ sources macadamia nuts in their shells from smallholder farmers across Kenya, meticulously processing and exporting high-quality raw macadamia kernels to international destinations, including the Netherlands, the USA, Spain, Germany, Italy, and China. With over 180 employees, the company has not only created employment opportunities but also empowered women to run and lead corporate businesses.
Jane and her team have ambitious plans to expand their operations into the production of speciality oils, such as sesame, moringa, and baobab. Additionally, Exotic EPZ intends to introduce roasted nuts to the domestic market, further diversifying its product range. Their annual production target of 5,000 metric tons reflects their commitment to sustainable growth and their vision for the future.
