KEPHIS Conducts Training on Pest Management and Export Requirements for Mango and Avocado Exporters in Machakos County

On 10th June 2025, KEPHIS held a one-day training in Machakos County for mango and avocado exporters. The session focused on identification and management of pests of concern to avocado and Mangoes, as well as export market requirements.

The training highlighted on key pests of concern like Fruit Flies which cause 30–80% yield losses in mangoes (Kenya’s second most exported fruit) and  the False Codling Moth which has over 80 Hosts, Avocado included.

Good agricultural practices in production,harvesting,post-harvest handling (storage and packaging) and use of integrated pest Management (IPM)were emphasized . 
Postharvest treatments of mango and avocado—such as fumigation, hot water treatment, and vapor heat treatment—were highlighted as essential measures to eliminate pests and meet the phytosanitary requirements of export markets like China, Jordan, India, Malaysia, and the European Union, where such treatments are mandatory.

This training stamps on  KEPHIS’s commitment to improving market access for Kenya’s agricultural produce by promoting compliance to international trade standards and sensitizing stakeholders on new market opportunities and requirements.