Seed biodiversity, also known as crop diversity remains crucial for food security, environmental health, and sustainable agricultural practices.
Maintaining seed diversity helps ensure resilient ecosystems, adapted crops, and reduces the risk of monoculture-related vulnerabilities.Â
However there has been challenges towards protecting seed biodiversity due to lack of clear policy framework.
It is for this reason that the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development in collaboration with Nakuru-based Seed Savers Network, Kenya , Hivos East Africa, and ISFAA, commenced consultative forums on the Conservation, Access and Benefit Sharing (CABS) regulations under the Seeds and Plant Varieties Act(SPVA).
These forums are aimed to amplify the voices of farmers, seed custodians, and other stakeholders.
Their knowledge, rights, and contributions will then be reflected in the final policy framework.
The proposed CABS regulations are set to strengthen community seed systems, protect biodiversity, and promote fair benefit sharing, laying the groundwork for a more just and sustainable agricultural future.
Speaking during such forum in Nakuru, Dr Desterio Ondieki Nyamongo from Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Institute pointed out that engagement of farmers on the regulations is key.
While noting that Kenya is a signatory to International plants and genetic resources treaty hence becomes part of our laws.
Some of the clauses of the treaty touching on the rights of farmers gas been incorporated in the constitution of Kenya.
With Amendments here and there since 2012 leading to the policy framework.
He was quick to point out that with proper regulations, the indigenous seeds will be protected.
“No farmer will be limited from selling their seeds, but the provisions are meant to ensure quality seeds,” he stated.
He added that with review of the policy, then there shall be strong farmer management system including seeds.
Sentiments echoed by Tabby Munyiri from Seed Savers Network Kenya who reiterated the need for farmers’ rights to be protected.
She noted that the CABS regulations will go a long way in addressing challenges that have been there in ensuring farmers get benefits from the conservation of genetic resources.
According to her, the regulations will enable farmers exchange seeds as opposed to before where it was criminalized.
“We know that once the process is through then we shall have mechanisms in place to guide the management and commercialization on the side of farmers,” she stated.
Farmers have welcomed the move to have the CABS regulations in place.
Led by Francis Ngiri, the famers noted that for the first time the farmers have been involved through the engagement.
“Seeds regulations are very key and some have been challenged in court..But in this one we are happy that we have been involved fully,” he stated.
He added that farmers have been managing seeds without benefits, but with this regulations in place, then there shall be
