CEO Ernest Muthomi Hails Dubai Liaison Office as Game Changer for Kenyan Avocado Exports

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By Irene Mwende 

The Kenyan avocado sector has received a major boost following the establishment of a Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) mission office in Dubai, a move industry leaders say will significantly reduce export losses and improve market access.

Speaking during the milestone event, Ernest Muthomi, CEO of Avavado Africa and the Avocado Society, said the new office comes as a relief to exporters who have for years suffered heavy losses due to non-payment and disputes in overseas markets.

“This is a game changer for us as an avocado sector,” said Muthomi. “Our people have been losing a lot of money through claims of non-payment. Having a liaison office in Dubai, which the society will partner with KNCCI, gives us confidence and security.”
According to Muthomi, the Dubai office will play a critical role in ensuring prompt payments, reducing disputes, and offering a reliable point of contact whenever complaints arise. He noted that the office will also serve as a strategic hub for marketing and branding Kenyan avocados in the Middle East.

“We are not the only players in that market,” he said. “We need to tell our good story and create visibility for Kenya. This means better prices, higher volumes, and stronger demand for our avocados.”

The idea, Muthomi explained, was driven by members of the Avocado Society and has now been actualized through KNCCI’s initiative. He confirmed that the society has formally expressed interest in partnering with the chamber to safeguard exports and strengthen trade systems.

Muthomi urged organizations that are not yet affiliated with KNCCI to join the chamber and take advantage of such initiatives. “When a partner comes up with a good idea, the best thing to do is to support it and benefit from it,” he said.
He added that the Avocado Society will provide technical support, including quality assurance, inspections, and export protocols. A dedicated export protocol will also be implemented in Dubai to enhance compliance and trust.

Currently, more than 160 registered Kenyan avocado exporters ship produce to Dubai. With the new office in place, Muthomi expressed confidence that exporters are now more secure, especially as the new avocado season begins next month.

“Due diligence has been done,” he said. “Anyone who ignores these systems does so at their own risk. For us, this marks a new chapter of protection, visibility, and growth for Kenyan avocados.”

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