Macadamia nuts get fresh market push

Arusha. Tanzania is making strides in the horticulture sector, with macadamia nuts emerging as a promising cash crop that could potentially redefine the industry and boost the nation’s agricultural economy.

The Tanzania Horticultural Association (Taha) has announced plans to scale up commercial production of macadamia nuts after more than six years of intensive research, trials, and investments.

“After years of dedicated research and investor commitment, macadamia farming is now ready to become a significant player in Tanzania’s horticultural industry,” Taha CEO Ms Jacqueline Mkindi said.

Macadamia trees thrive at altitudes between 1,000 and 1,500 meters above sea level, requiring temperate climates and moderate rainfall.

Tanzania’s northern and southern highlands, as well as its lake zones, provide ideal growing conditions for the crop.

“Our soil and climate support yields of up to 42 nuts per bunch—almost double the global average of 22 nuts—making macadamia a highly productive and lucrative option for farmers,” Ms Mkindi said.

While macadamia farming requires significant initial investment and a five-year wait before the trees mature, the financial returns are highly attractive.  “An investment of $2,400 per acre can yield up to $12,000 annually once the trees are in full production,” Ms Mkindi said. Scaling this model to 10 acres would bring an annual return exceeding $120,000.

Despite challenges such as pest management and high production costs, Taha provides comprehensive support to farmers, from land acquisition and financial guidance to market access and certifications.

The global market for macadamia nuts is booming, driven by their health benefits, growing popularity among plant-based diet enthusiasts, and use in cosmetics.

The founder of Namwai Macadamia Plantation in Siha District Mr Hussein Gonga, underscored the crop’s potential.

“Macadamia nuts are highly sought after in the U.S., Europe, and China for their rich flavor and nutritional profile,” he said.

Mr Gonga has invested in value addition, importing roasting machines and oil production equipment to meet rising demand for healthy snacks and natural skincare products.

“Macadamia oil is a premium ingredient in the cosmetics industry, and by investing in technology, we’re catering to diverse markets,” he added.

The general manager of Edelweiss Estate in Karatu District, Mr Edward Massawe, echoed this optimism.

The estate has invested in a 200-acre plantation and established a processing plant capable of handling 1.5 metric tons of macadamia nuts daily—the first facility of its kind in Tanzania.

“With increasing global demand, we are scaling up production to position Tanzania as a leading supplier of high-quality macadamia nuts,” Mr Massawe said.

Macadamia farming is a fresh opportunity for Tanzanian farmers and investors, combining high financial returns with growing demand for sustainable, plant-based products.

Ms Mkindi emphasised, “Macadamia farming is not just an investment in agriculture but a gateway to Tanzania’s economic growth and global market integration.”With Taha’s support and favourable conditions, macadamia nuts are set to become one of Tanzania’s most valuable horticultural exports in the coming years.