In a significant legislative move, Kenya is set to introduce the 2024 Horticultural Crops Authority Bill, aimed at regulating the horticulture sector more stringently. This new bill, sponsored by nominated MP Sabina Chege, will require all horticulture dealers, including growers, processors, marketers, and exporters of fruits, vegetables, and flowers, to obtain licenses from the newly established Horticultural Crops Authority or respective county governments. The bill mandates a comprehensive registration system, stating, "The Authority or respective county government shall issue a certificate of registration to an applicant who fulfills the registration requirements prescribed in regulations." These certificates will be valid for a fiscal year, from July 1st to June 30th of the following year, unless cancelled earlier.
Violators of the bill's provisions face severe penalties, including fines up to Sh1 million or imprisonment for up to three years, or both. This move is part of efforts to enhance the sector's contribution to the Kenyan economy, which is a significant source of foreign currency alongside tourism, tea, and remittances. The bill also introduces a levy on horticultural exports and imports, with rates set at 1.5 percent for exports and varying rates for imports, depending on the state of the produce. Moreover, the bill seeks to elevate the Agriculture and Food Authority's horticultural directorate to a full-fledged authority, responsible for licensing, registration, and enforcing compliance within the sector.
Imported crops will be subject to inspection at the importer's warehouse to ensure they meet national, regional, and international food safety and quality standards. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the protection of social welfare, environmental conservation, and water conservation among flower firms. Horticultural produce must be handled in ways that prevent contamination, with specific prohibitions against growing crops in dumping sites or using contaminated water for irrigation. The proposed regulations aim to ensure that only products conforming to quality standards are sold in local and export markets, with provisions for impromptu inspections to enforce compliance.
As Kenya's horticulture sector continues to grow, with the Central Bank of Kenya reporting a 15 percent increase in exports of vegetables, nuts, fruits, and cut flowers between January and April of the current year, these regulations represent a crucial step towards ensuring sustainable development and compliance with global standards.
Sources: The Star & Capital Business