Nairobi:The government of Kenya has announced a commitment to enhance food safety standards to protect consumers and improve the country’s export potential. This initiative was discussed during the National Codex Committee (NCC) High-Level Policymakers’ breakfast meeting in Nairobi, where the National Codex Strategic Plan 2026-2031 was launched.
According to Kenya News Agency, Investments, Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui emphasized the government’s focus on quality in trade, investment, and manufacturing to strengthen food safety systems and support export-led economic growth. He urged policymakers and institutional leaders to integrate the strategic plan into their work plans and budgets, highlighting the importance of investing in technical expertise and participating in the Codex Alimentarius Commission.
The strategic plan, developed by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), aims to enhance national food safety systems, protect consumers, and boost the competitiveness of Kenyan agricultural and manufactured products. Key priorities include improved institutional coordination, expanded scientific and technical capacity, and increased participation in international standards-setting processes.
Cabinet Secretary Kinyanjui highlighted the importance of meeting international food safety and quality requirements to enhance the competitiveness of Kenyan products in global markets. He noted the progress in voluntary food fortification among cereal millers and called for further investment in scientific research and data generation to support evidence-based decision-making.
The strategic plan sets a resource mobilisation target of approximately Sh760 million over five years, with contributions from government agencies, private sector organisations, and development partners. It also emphasizes the need for strong coordination and collaboration among institutions responsible for agriculture, health, research, standards regulation, and trade to ensure effective food safety management.
Dr. Allan Azegele, Director of Veterinary Services and Chairperson of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, stressed the importance of collaboration among government institutions, research organisations, universities, industry players, and consumer groups to successfully implement the strategy. The meeting also addressed the management of aflatoxins in nuts and cereals, promoting improved post-harvest practices to minimize contamination and agricultural losses.
The National Codex Strategic Plan 2026-2031 is expected to enhance national coordination, increase Kenya’s participation in international standards-setting, promote scientific evidence in food safety decisions, and boost compliance across food value chains, ultimately enhancing consumer confidence.
