Agriculture and Health Committees Hold Joint Meeting With Stakeholders on Food and Feed Safety Coordination Control Bill

The Committee on Health and Committee on Agriculture and Livestock today held a joint meeting with stakeholders on the Food & Feed Safety Coordination Control Bill.

In a session co- chaired by Hon. Dr. Robert Pukose, Chair Health and Hon. Brighton Yegon,Vice Chair Agriculture and Livestock Committee, Members engaged with stakeholders drawn from the Ministry of Health led by PS, Public Health and Professional Standards, Ms.Mary Muthoni, Kenya Bureau of Standards Acting CEO Ms. Esther Ngari, Council of Governors CEO, Ms. Mary Mwiti, Represenatuves from Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service,Agriculture Food Authority and Kenya Pest Control Products Board.

Council of Governors CEO, Ms. Mary Mwiti submmitted that the Council of Governors’ supports the Food & Feed Safety Coordination Control Bill.

On her part, Kenya Bureau of Standards Acting CEO Ms. Esther Ngari, highlighted Section 16 of the Bill, which focuses on the role of the Kenya Bureau of Standards, was particularly emphasized. Stakeholders acknowledged that adherence to international standards, such as the International Codex, would help create a robust regulatory framework for food and feed safety, thereby boosting Kenya’s competitiveness in the export of horticulture, food, and feed products.

During the meeting Lawmakers’ recognized the importance of having a comprehensive regulatory framework that aligns Kenyan standards with international norms while catering to the specific needs of the country.

“We must have regulations that meet Kenyan Food and Feed Safety Control Coordination standards and International Market standards to remain competitive in exports of Horticulture, Food and Feed Export,” stated Konoin MP, Hon. Brighton Yegon.

However, Members also acknowledged the complexity of addressing different requirements and standards among different countries. Members of the National Assembly emphasized the need to strike a balance between setting food safety standards and allowing flexibility to accommodate diverse needs.

Seme MP Dr. James Nyikal, highlighted the complexity arising from the coexistence of Kenyan standards, international standards, and even more stringent private standards like those set by the European Union. Balancing these various standards while ensuring consumer safety remains a challenge.

Regarding coordination of regulatory agencies involved, Membera of the Joiny Committee recognised to avoid redundancy and promote efficient regulation, the importance of having a unified regulatory framework. They expressed concerns about potential duplication of efforts if each county were to have its own unique regulations.

During thr meeting the efficacy of existing bodies responsible for food and feed safety standards came under scrutiny as well. Members of the Joint Committee underscored instances of consumer products being released for consumption and later found defective were cited as examples of potential shortcomings in the system.

Further submissions by stakehokders revealed that the Food & Feed Safety Coordination Control Bill aims to involve Food Business Operators by having regulators conduct frequent inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards. This proactive approach is intended to mitigate risks and protect consumers.

Members of the Committee on Agriculture and Livestock and the Health Committee are excpected to review submiaaions and preapre a comprehensive report which will be tabled in the coming weeks.