One of the eye-catching fruits displayed at the Makueni Agricultural Show 2026 was the Pomelo, the world's largest citrus fruit. With its large size, thick yellow-green rind, and sweet pink flesh, the fruit attracted many visitors who were eager to learn about its nutritional and commercial value. Farmers and agricultural experts explained that pomelo has great potential for commercial farming in Kenya's dry regions, especially in Makueni County.
Pomelo thrives in warm climates with well-drained soils, making Lower Eastern Kenya an ideal production area. The tree is drought-tolerant once established and can produce high yields with proper irrigation and management. It begins bearing fruits within three to five years and continues producing for many years, making it a profitable long-term investment.
The fruit is highly valued for its rich nutritional content. Pomelo is packed with Vitamin C, antioxidants, dietary fibre, and potassium, which help strengthen the immune system, improve digestion, promote healthy skin, and support heart health. Its naturally sweet taste with a mild citrus flavour makes it enjoyable to eat fresh, while it can also be processed into juice, fruit salads, marmalade, and other value-added products.
Exhibitors at the show encouraged farmers to diversify into pomelo farming due to the growing demand for healthy fruits in local and export markets. Since the fruit is larger than ordinary oranges and has a longer shelf life, it can fetch attractive prices in supermarkets, hotels, and fruit processing industries.
With proper orchard management, including regular pruning, irrigation during dry periods, pest control, and balanced fertilization, farmers can achieve consistent production and quality fruits.
The exhibition demonstrated that pomelo is more than just a giant citrus fruit—it is a high-value crop capable of improving nutrition, creating agribusiness opportunities, and increasing household incomes. As more farmers embrace fruit diversification, pomelo is set to become one of the promising commercial fruits for Makueni and other semi-arid regions of Kenya.
