Kenya’s avocado industry just got a powerful boost as Karakuta Fresh Produce officially launched a cutting-edge 7,500-tonne packhouse, positioning the country as a serious contender in the global fresh produce market.

In a vibrant ceremony graced by Equity Group CEO Dr. James Mwangi, Karakuta CEO Grace Ngungi, and Spanish Embassy trade officials, the state-of-the-art facility was unveiled as a game-changer for over 1,500 smallholder farmers and the broader agricultural sector.

“This isn’t just a packhouse—it’s a symbol of transformation,” said Dr. Mwangi. “Karakuta is solving the exact problem export markets care about: quality and consistency.”

Funded by Equity Bank and equipped with Israeli technology, the facility will grade and package avocados from Karakuta’s 180-acre farm and surrounding regions, giving small-scale farmers access to high-value export markets.

Grace Ngungi, the visionary behind Karakuta, shared her journey from smallholder to industry trailblazer: “I wanted to build a model that lifts farmers and ensures Kenyan avocados are world-class. Today, buyers abroad are competing for our produce.”

The launch marks a giant leap from Karakuta’s early days—shipping just 8 containers—to a projected 60 containers in 2025. Government officials and industry leaders praised the initiative for setting a new benchmark in agri-industrialization.

“Grace is showing Africa what’s possible when passion meets purpose,” said Dr. Mwangi. “This is how we grow industries, change livelihoods, and export not just fruit—but hope.”