The sector accounts for 65% of export earnings and provides livelihoods for more than 80% of the population. With a growing populace, the sector remains vital to food and nutrition security in the country. Kenya’s seed industry is guided by its National Seed Policy and associated laws.
How many seed companies are there in Kenya?
Only six of the 26 companies have purely sales activities in Kenya. The presence of four South and Southeast Asian companies is notable, with Charoen Pokphand (Thailand), Known-You Seed (Taiwan), Nongwoo Bio (Republic of Korea) and Nuziveedu Seeds (India) demonstrating the growing trend of South-South seed company expansions.
Who regulates the seed industry in Kenya?
The seed industry in Kenya is regulated by the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service, which is the national designated authority on seeds. There is a seed traders association, with membership from both the private and the public sector.
What are the laws guiding the seed industry in Kenya?
The principal law guiding the seed industry is the Seeds and Plant Varieties Act (Cap 326) from 2016. This law comprehensively addresses all legislative issues relating to seeds and plant varieties and seeks harmonization with other related acts and international agreements where Kenya is a signatory.