An unprecedented shortage of avocados has hit several markets across West Pokot County, triggering concern among traders and consumers, who say the popular fruit has become increasingly difficult to find.
Residents told Kenya News Agency (KNA) that the shortage, which began late last year, has persisted into 2026, leaving many wondering whether avocado trees are becoming scarce or demand has sharply increased.
Avocado lovers in Kapenguria expressed frustration over the situation, noting that the fruit, which was once readily available, has almost disappeared from local markets.
Sharon Kemboi said she has gone without avocados for nearly two months, a situation she described as unusual given her long-standing habit of consuming the fruit regularly.
“Avocados never used to miss in my diet. I would eat at least one avocado every day, either as a salad or mixed with beans, popularly known as githeri. Now the fruit cannot be found anywhere,” she said.
Kemboi observed that although avocados are seasonal, they have rarely been as scarce as they are currently.
A spot check by KNA in various fruit markets within Kapenguria confirmed the shortage, with vendors saying supplies have dwindled significantly in recent months.
Fruit vendor Mercy Wafula said her stall rarely went without avocados in the past, but she has been unable to secure supplies despite reaching out to her usual suppliers.
“I have tried all my networks to get avocados, but there is none. This is different from mangoes, which are now in excess supply,” she said.
Wafula attributed the shortage to heavy rains experienced during the better part of last year, which she said may have interfered with flowering and fruiting cycles.
“Perhaps the heavy rains affected the fruiting process. We are optimistic that supply will stabilize soon,” she added.
Some residents pointed to the destruction of mature avocado trees as a contributing factor to the shortage.
Simon Krop said many large avocado trees that once dotted Kapenguria were cut down years ago because residents did not appreciate the value of the fruit at the time.
“We used to have huge avocado trees, but most of them were cut down because people did not see their value. If those trees were still there, we would be having plenty of avocados,” he said.
Krop noted that consumption patterns have since changed, with more households now embracing avocados due to changing tastes and increased awareness of their nutritional value.
He said that in the past, avocados were not widely consumed, but today almost every household considers them an essential part of their diet.
Consumers also attributed the rising demand to increased access to health information highlighting the benefits of avocados.
Nutritionists say avocados are rich in essential vitamins and minerals and contain healthy fats that enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, making them a valuable addition to a balanced diet.
By Richard Muhambe
