A recent report by the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) and its partners has highlighted significant variations in bean prices across East African countries. In Kenya, yellow beans commanded the top spot at $1,185 per metric ton in both July and August 2026. This stability in prices is a notable trend in the region. The data was compiled in the August 2026 Food Security Monitor, which tracks market trends across Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda.
Red beans in Kenya were the second most expensive category, holding steady at $954 per metric ton for both months. This consistency in pricing is in contrast to other East African nations, which experienced shifts in wholesale bean prices. The report suggests that Kenya's market trends differ significantly from those of its neighbors. The prices of beans in Kenya remained completely flat across both months, indicating a stable market.
In Uganda, the most pronounced price increase was observed, jumping from $684 per metric ton in July to $846 per metric ton in August 2026. This significant increase indicates a substantial change in the market dynamics of Uganda. Tanzania also recorded an upward trend, rising from $728 per metric ton in July to $756 per metric ton in August. These changes suggest that Uganda and Tanzania are experiencing market fluctuations.
Rwanda reflected a slight price appreciation as well, with rates edging up from $708 per metric ton in July to $728 per metric ton in August 2026. Although the increase is minimal, it indicates a growing trend in Rwanda's bean market. Overall, Uganda recorded the lowest bean price in July at $684 per metric ton, while Rwanda registered the lowest price among neighboring countries in August at $728 per metric ton.
The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) and its partners compiled the data for the August 2026 Food Security Monitor. The report highlights distinct market trends across the region, with Kenya posting the highest prices among the monitored nations. The stability of Kenya's market is a notable trend, differing from the fluctuations observed in other countries.
The price variations across East African countries may be attributed to several factors, including market demand, supply chains, and local production. The report provides valuable insights into the region's market trends, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and analysis. By understanding these trends, stakeholders can make informed decisions to ensure food security and stability in the region.
The data from the August 2026 Food Security Monitor provides a comprehensive overview of the bean market in East Africa. With Kenya's stable prices and other countries experiencing fluctuations, the report underscores the importance of monitoring market trends to ensure food security and stability in the region. The findings of the report are crucial for stakeholders seeking to understand the dynamics of the bean market in East Africa.
Key points
- Kenya recorded the highest bean prices in East Africa, with yellow beans at $1,185 per metric ton in July and August 2026.
- Uganda experienced the most pronounced price increase, jumping from $684 per metric ton in July to $846 per metric ton in August 2026.
- The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) compiled the data for the August 2026 Food Security Monitor, highlighting distinct market trends across East African countries.
