2024-10-28 23:24:00
In Kenya, the fight against a seed regulation law is gaining more and more supporters. It all started in 2022, when about fifteen small farmers filed a complaint against the Law on Seeds and Plant Varieties, a text approved in 2012 that criminalizes the use and barter of uncertified seeds. Several civil society organizations have recently joined their complaint.
From our correspondent in Nairobi,
The Kenya Law Society, a lawyers’ organisation, and the Kenya Biodiversity Association are the latest two organizations to join the civil parties in this case.
The Seeds and Plant Varieties Act makes the use, sale or exchange of uncertified seeds punishable by two years in prison and a fine of 1 million shillings – or about $7,500. According to the government, this law aims to regulate the sector and ultimately improve the country’s food security.
Family farming in danger
For small farmers, the entire family farming model is in danger. “ These seeds have been used since time immemorial, explains Francis Ngiri, farmer and plaintiff in this case. We inherited them from our ancestors. And would we be criminals today for this? » he is indignant.
Small farmers accuse the Kenyan authorities of favoring the interests of large agricultural companies to the detriment of Kenyan farmers. A policy that could also have serious consequences on the country’s food security.
80% of the seeds come from the informal system
« Native seeds are naturally hardy, explains Elizabeth Atieno, of Greenpeace Africa. They are fundamental to the diversity of cultures and represent our defense against climate change and water shortages.”.
According to a study by the Access to Seeds foundation, 90% of seeds are planted Kenya they come from the informal system and 80% of Kenyan farmers depend on it. The ruling from the High Court of Kenya is expected in the coming weeks.
To go further, listen to Around the QuestionBiopiracy: what are the North-South issues?
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