(Nairobi) – The flower export industry in Kenya is facing serious disruptions due to a freight crisis at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Airflo BV, a Dutch company that handles and transports fresh produce, has informed its Kenyan customers of significant delays and cancellations that could impact deliveries, especially to the Netherlands, during the peak high season for flowers.
The crisis at JKIA, which has been ongoing for several weeks, has led to an accumulation of cargo at the airport. Airflo, which coordinates temperature-controlled logistics for flowers, plants, vegetables, and other perishables, reported that flight cancellations and delays have already reduced its airfreight capacity by about 300 tonnes. Despite efforts to arrange charter flights to recover lost capacity, demand from Asia is taking up all available space, leaving no room for Kenyan exports.
In a public notice to clients on November 1, Airflo warned of further challenges, stating that it could not secure additional capacity and had no choice but to impose restrictions on deliveries. This has led to a reduction in the planned volumes of fresh produce being sent to European markets, with the company advising clients not to deliver any products on November 3.
The situation has worsened with the ongoing congestion at JKIA, as the backlog could grow to 800 tonnes if the crisis persists. The Shippers Council of Eastern Africa (SCEA) has expressed concern over the impact on the horticulture sector, which is a key contributor to Kenya’s economy. The sector generated Ksh157 billion ($1.29 billion) in export earnings in 2023, with flowers being a major export.
The crisis has been aggravated by a series of factors. Foreign cargo airlines, which typically transport Kenyan fresh produce, have been attracted to other markets due to better pay, particularly in regions with increased festive activities. Meanwhile, the ongoing crisis in the Red Sea, where Houthi rebels have targeted ships, has led to higher transit costs and longer shipping times through Egypt’s Suez Canal. This has further disrupted global supply chains, delaying shipments and increasing costs for Kenya’s exporters.
Airflo remains hopeful that the situation will improve as more aircraft are returned to service, but the company has acknowledged the serious implications for its customers.