This initiative is a collaboration between Kisumu Lakefront Development Agency (KLDA), Kenya Airways and Fresh Produce Consortium of Kenya (FPCK). The initiative seeks to establish Kisumu as a hub for horticultural exports by improving cold storage and air freight services for the fresh vegetables and fruits from the Lake region. The initiative is to benefit the smallholder farmers, exporters and logistical providers who operate in the lake region by delivering efficient horticultural fresh produce export facilities in central locations.
Implementation Status
The Kisumu Cargo Village Initiative is currently under its initial stages and it aims to enhance infrastructure to facilitate and support direct exports from Western Kenya.
Key Findings
- Strategic Location: The initiative will enable Kisumu to provide an alternative export route more so for the horticultural fresh produce from this region.
- Investment in Cold Chain Infrastructure: The initiative will promote cold chain infrastructure among the farmers, exporters and logistical providers thus reducing post-harvest losses and improving product quality.
- Expanded Export Opportunities: Direct cargo flights from Kisumu to the export markets will improve market access for the farmers and exporters of fresh horticulture produce.
The initiative highlights inadequate funds and limited infrastructural development as the key challenges affecting the facilitation process.