By Mercy Wambui,
KEPHIS plays a critical role in quality seed assurance by regulating, inspecting, testing, and certifying seed to ensure that farmers access high-quality planting materials. KEPHIS establishes and enforces seed standards to guarantee genetic purity, physical quality, varietal identity, and freedom from pests and diseases.
Representatives from seed companies, industry associations, and regulatory bodies convened at KEPHIS Headquarters on 17th March 2026 for the Seed Stakeholders’ Forum to discuss emerging issues affecting Kenya’s seed sector. During the meeting, the Seed Traders Association of Kenya (STAK) commended KEPHIS for its continued efforts in supporting the seed industry despite increasing challenges. Stakeholders emphasized the need for stronger collaboration and unity among seed merchants to safeguard the integrity of the seed sector and ensure farmers access quality planting materials.
A key highlight of the forum was KEPHIS’ presentation on seed certification and plant variety protection, which underscored the importance of quality and certified seed in enhancing agricultural productivity. The agency revealed that 50% of crop varieties released in 2025 were climate-smart, up from 30% in previous years, reflecting increased efforts to address climate change challenges in agriculture. KEPHIS also shared industry statistics showing that over 200 seed merchants are registered in Kenya, while more than 4,500 seed lots passed inspection in the 2024/2025 period. Stakeholders were updated on ongoing digitization initiatives, including adoption of e-Citizen payment systems, traceability measures through sticker label codes, and plans to digitize the National Plant Variety List.
The forum also addressed major challenges facing the seed sector, including counterfeit seed, limited certification resources, climate change impacts, and increasing demand for inspection services. Particular concern was raised over a recent Machakos court ruling affecting the Seed and Plant Variety Act, which could weaken seed certification enforcement and invalidate plant breeders’ rights. Stakeholders warned that the ruling may encourage trade in uncertified seed and reduce investment in plant breeding. In response, participants proposed collective advocacy efforts, farmer sensitization campaigns, and mobilization of resources to support an appeal process aimed at protecting Kenya’s seed regulatory framework and maintaining confidence in the country’s seed industry.
