As millions worldwide exchange flowers this Valentine’s Day, few stop to consider the journey of each bloom—its origins, the hands that nurtured it, and the challenges that threatened its journey to global markets. Kenya, a floral powerhouse, remains a top supplier of cut flowers, contributing 1.6% to the nation’s GDP and employing over 200,000 workers. Yet, beneath the beauty of Kenya’s roses lies a sector grappling with mounting hurdles.
The flower industry is entangled in a web of over 55 levies and taxes annually, significantly straining profitability. The introduction of the Unique Consignment Reference (UCR) tax in 2024 has added to the financial burden, with some exporters paying over Kshs. 14 million in just six months. Meanwhile, new taxes such as the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) and the Housing Levy have eroded workers’ take-home income. Without tax relief, the industry’s expansion and global competitiveness remain at risk.
The False Codling Moth (FCM) continues to threaten Kenya’s flower exports, with last year alone witnessing KES 20 million in losses due to market rejections. The European Union has tightened phytosanitary regulations, and a single interception could damage Kenya’s reputation. To combat this, the Kenya Flower Council (KFC) is working with growers and international partners to implement the Systems Approach Protocol. If successfully adopted, Kenya will be FCM-compliant by April 2025, securing its foothold in the European market.
Exporting flowers is a race against time, with 97% of Kenyan blooms shipped fresh to global markets. However, freight costs have soared by 100% since 2020, with a drastic rise from USD 2.1 to 4.3 per kilo in late 2024. Exporters are struggling to absorb these costs, threatening the industry’s sustainability. The KFC is calling on the government to review port fees, attract more airlines, and incentivize cargo freighters to ensure uninterrupted exports.
Kenya’s floriculture sector has made remarkable strides in sustainability, adopting renewable energy, integrated pest management, and efficient water usage. With the KFC’s Floriculture Sustainability Standard (FOSS) leading the way, the industry is working toward net-zero carbon emissions by 2030. Initiatives such as the EcoTrace App are helping farmers measure water footprint, ensuring that every Kenyan flower symbolizes environmental stewardship.
Despite these challenges, Kenya’s flower industry remains resilient. The CEO of the Kenya Flower Council emphasized that with the right policies and government support, the sector has the potential to double in size over the next decade. As Kenya’s flowers continue to grace homes and celebrations worldwide, one thing remains clear: behind every bloom is a story of perseverance, innovation, and love—not just for Valentine’s Day, but for the industry itself.
