Agriculture Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mutahi Kagwe has announced stringent new measures to ensure the continued export of Kenyan flowers to the European Union (EU). The ministry will implement a Systems approach, designed to meet EU requirements and streamline export procedures under the Union Customs Code.
A key element of this initiative is tackling the False Codling Moth (FCM), a pest that thrives in warm climates and affects various crops, including flowers, citrus, avocados, and vegetables. In 2024, Kenya faced significant losses due to FCM infestations, with 95 export consignments rejected and 48 intercepted. These incidents led to an estimated loss of Ksh.146.9 million.
In response to the EU’s tougher regulations on fresh rose exports introduced in July last year, Kenya has submitted an FCM Systems Approach protocol. This document outlines measures to mitigate pest risks and ensure compliance with EU standards. CS Kagwe emphasized that the ministry has also provided evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of the Systems approach, along with a list of 134 approved production sites.
To implement these changes, the government is working closely with regulatory bodies such as the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS), Kenya Agricultural & Livestock Research Organization, Pest Control Products Board, and the Agriculture and Food Authority. These organizations are tasked with ensuring compliance with the new protocols and maintaining Kenya’s reputation as a leading flower exporter.
Recognizing the need for industry-wide awareness and training, the ministry has already trained 475 agro-attendants and 849 staff members on the new regulations. This initiative aims to align stakeholders with EU requirements and eliminate the risk of future FCM-related export rejections.
“With all this in place, I would like to ensure the EU that our compliance will be at 100 percent, and our produce will meet the highest quality standards, ensuring that no FCM is ever detected in our flowers again,” stated CS Kagwe.
These measures reaffirm Kenya’s commitment to maintaining its position as a top flower exporter while safeguarding its European market access through enhanced phytosanitary standards and regulatory compliance.
