The new Horticultural Crops Authority (HCA) Bill 2024 will significantly change Kenya’s horticulture and may revolutionise the country’s agriculture sector.
The Horticultural Crops Authority Bill is a strategic solution for developing and professionalising the horticulture sector in Kenya. This has a broader impact on players in the exportation value chain, especially farmers and exporters.
Key Objectives of Kenya’s Horticultural Crops Authority Bill
The legislation focuses on five primary objectives that demonstrate a holistic approach to industry development:
1. Accelerating Industry Growth:
The Horticultural Crops Authority Bill aims to ease and enhance a coherent regulatory structure and unlock the full potential of Kenya’s horticulture industry.
2. Boosting Farmer Productivity:
It is intended to enhance horticulture for farmers’ checks and overall business profitability by implementing appropriate and coherent practices with corresponding support systems.
3. Ensuring Food Safety:
Standard setting shall be undertaken to ensure the quality and safety of horticultural produce.
4. Attracting Investment:
Expect a more organized and transparent industry framework on horticulture to appeal to local and foreign investors.
5. Enhancing Export Capabilities:
The bill envisages rationalising export procedures, which may increase export revenues in foreign exchange.
Comprehensive Regulatory Measures:
The proposed Horticultural Crops Authority bill introduces several groundbreaking regulatory measures:
- Compulsory licensing for export, import, and processing.
- Overseeing and managing flower growers and horticultural dealers.
- Adoption and implementation of new high traceability standards in packaging and transportation of products.
- Every exporter, marketing agent, and packing facility should be registered systematically.
Potential Industry Impact
However, the bill has also sparked significant debate. While it promises benefits, particularly in health care, it needs to deliver on them. Supporters highlight enhanced professionalism and global competitiveness, while critics point to increased bureaucracy as a potential drawback.
Looking Ahead
The Horticultural Crops Authority Bill 2024 represents a pivotal moment for Kenya’s horticultural sector. The country is positioning itself as a potential global horticultural production and export leader by creating a robust, transparent, and innovative regulatory framework.
As the bill continues to evolve, international horticultural enthusiasts and industry stakeholders will be watching closely, anticipating the transformative potential of this comprehensive legislative approach.
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