The Kenyan government is set to introduce stringent agricultural regulations, impacting over three million local farmers by restricting their ability to sell fruits and vegetables. Under these new directives, only large-scale farmers, corporations, and importers will have authorization to distribute these goods within the nation. This move comes as part of an effort to enforce the KS1758 Kenyan standard, a comprehensive 55-page document outlining over 500 new agricultural practices aimed at enhancing food safety.
These regulations will necessitate that farmers undergo certification, demonstrating compliance with the KS1758 standard. The certification process includes acquiring NEMA licenses for vegetable cultivation, conducting soil and water analysis, and engaging with either national or international standards certifiers for official certification. The costs associated with these requirements are substantial, with estimates suggesting expenses could surpass Sh250,000 per farmer, a figure well beyond the financial reach of the majority of Kenyan farmers.
Despite the official stance that these measures are intended to safeguard consumer health, concerns have been raised regarding their feasibility and the significant economic impact on the local agricultural sector. Critics argue that the enforcement of these standards could severely disrupt Kenya's food supply chain and potentially open the door to corrupt practices due to the stringent and costly requirements imposed on small-scale farmers.
The horticulture sector, a critical component of Kenya's agricultural landscape, is poised to experience considerable challenges if these regulations come into full effect. With a significant portion of the nation's farmers reliant on the cultivation of horticultural crops for their livelihood, the impending regulations could lead to a substantial reduction in income for the agricultural community, estimated at over Sh280bn annually.
Source: Soko Directory