Kenyan macadamia farmers are advocating for a review of laws governing the export of raw macadamia nuts and other oil crops, aiming to limit the Agriculture Cabinet Secretary's powers over these exports. They propose establishing a price control board to regulate the export market and combat cartels affecting farm gate prices. During a recent meeting, over 1,200 farmers expressed concerns that the current Agricultural and Food Authority (AFA) Act grants the Cabinet Secretary excessive authority, which has been misused against farmers' interests. The AFA Act restricts raw macadamia and cashew exports, requiring specific approvals and inspections before clearance. Farmers believe that revising the legislation would better protect their interests.
Source: www.standardmedia.co.ke