The Early Days of Kenya's Flower Industry
Kenya's flower industry, initially a secondary sector post-independence, has blossomed into a global leader. Initially overlooked by the government in favor of tea and coffee, the sector saw a big change with the entry of Danish investor Bonde Nielsen in 1969. His collaboration with the Kenyan government led to significant advancements.
Rise to Prominence
The key turning point came with the global oil crises of the 1970s, which escalated heating costs in Europe, making flower production in Kenya, with its favorable climate and geography, more viable and profitable. Kenya rapidly grew to become the region's leading exporter of fresh flowers to Europe. By the late 20th century, Kenya had become Africa's largest and the world's third-largest exporter of cut flowers. Exports soared from 11,000 tons in 1988 to 160,000 tons by 2017, earning the nation over $800 million annually. The key to this success has been Kenya's strategic use of air freight, leveraging its position as a major regional hub.
Bridging Kenya and Greece
Kenya’s flower industry is now one of the largest employers in the country, providing employment to over 100,000 people directly and an estimated 2 million people indirectly, mostly women. Kenya has become the leading exporter of rose cut flowers to the European Union (EU) with a market share of almost 40%. We, at Lauren International Greece, have established a vital link connecting Greece to Kenya’s flourishing export industry. We ensure that the finest Kenyan blooms, celebrated for their quality and longevity, find their way to Greek markets. Our commitment is not just to import but to create a seamless bridge of beauty and quality, from Kenyan fields to Greek vases.
Kenya's journey from a humble participant to a leading player in the global flower market is inspiring. Today, as we connect Greece to this vibrant industry in Kenya, we are proud to be a part of this ongoing story of growth, resilience, and global connectivity.
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