Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), through Fibre Crops Directorate, has been engaging stakeholders across various counties in the eastern region as part of the ongoing public participation exercise on the proposed fibre crops regulations. These forums aim to present and discuss the Draft Crops (Fibre Crops) Regulations, 2024, ensuring that industry players have the opportunity to review and provide feedback on these essential guidelines.

In a series of consultative meetings, AFA has gathered representatives from county governments, financial institutions, fibre crop growers, cooperatives, and private sector actors. The forums have taken place for several counties, including Meru, Laikipia, Isiolo, Marsabit, Embu, Kirinyaga, Tharaka Nithi, Murang’a, Machakos, Nairobi, Kitui, and Makueni. The participation of stakeholders such as ginnery operators, farmers' cooperatives, county officials, and the private sector has been critical to the success of these engagements.

The primary objective of these forums is to create an enabling environment for vibrant private sector participation, promoting the development and growth of the fibre crops sub-sector. Discussions have highlighted best practices for enhancing the production and regulation of fibre crops like sisal and cotton. Stakeholders have underscored the importance of establishing regulations that foster innovation, collaboration, and productivity across the value chain.

Ag. Director of the Fibre Crops Directorate, Grace Kyalo, together with representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, have been leading these discussions. The goal is to ensure that the proposed regulations address the specific challenges faced by farmers, manufacturers, and other key players while promoting sustainable growth and improved productivity within the sector.

These consultative forums underline the significance of public participation in shaping policies that directly impact the agricultural industry. By incorporating the insights of those working in the sector, the AFA Fibre Crops Directorate aims to develop regulations that not only protect the interests of industry stakeholders but also drive economic growth and development within Kenya's fibre crops sector.