Kenya has made a significant leap in advancing farmers’ rights with the introduction of the Seeds and Plant Varieties (Conservation, Access, and Benefit Sharing of Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture) Regulations, 2024. These regulations, which align with the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA), provide a strong framework for conserving agrobiodiversity and promoting equitable seed access. Seed Savers Network (SSN), as a key participant in the development of these regulations, has further demonstrated its dedication to strengthening farmers’ seed systems and ensuring their voices are heard.
The ABS Regulations offer critical provisions that address key challenges faced by farmers. Section 8 explicitly recognizes farmers’ rights to save, exchange, and use seeds, reinforcing traditional practices vital for food security and cultural heritage. This recognition is a cornerstone of SSN’s advocacy, as it guarantees that farmers retain control over their resources while fostering sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, Section 9 introduces a streamlined process for communities to register ownership of plant genetic resources, ensuring that smallholder farmers and indigenous groups can secure their contributions to agrobiodiversity.
Another transformative aspect of the regulations lies in their approach to Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS). Sections 18 to 20 provide a clear protocol for accessing plant genetic resources, requiring prior informed consent (PIC) and mutually agreed terms (MAT) between communities and users. These measures ensure that benefits from the utilization of genetic resources are equitably shared, supporting community development and conservation efforts. Furthermore, the integration of indigenous knowledge into conservation strategies, as outlined in Section 12, highlights the critical role of traditional practices in sustainable agriculture.
To affirm its commitment to advancing these principles, SSN collaborated with the government to host a public participation forum in Machakos County. This event served as a platform for farmers, community leaders, and stakeholders to share their perspectives on implementing the regulations. Among the suggestions made were calls to simplify the registration processes for community-owned genetic resources, enhance government support for community seed banks, and strengthen protections for indigenous knowledge. These insights underscore the importance of participatory governance in shaping policies that address the realities of those most affected.
Farmers’ Rights Public Participation Workshop
The introduction of the ABS Regulations also aligns with SSN’s broader advocacy efforts. SSN aims to raise awareness and encourage global adoption of similar frameworks. These efforts not only highlight the practical benefits of the regulations but also foster knowledge-sharing and collaboration among communities and stakeholders worldwide.
As Kenya charts a path toward food sovereignty, the Seeds and Plant Varieties (CABS) Regulations, 2024, represent a pivotal moment in protecting farmers’ rights and promoting seed access. Through initiatives like public participation, advocacy, and education, SSN continues to empower farming communities to preserve their seeds, protect their knowledge, and secure their livelihoods. Together, these actions plant the seeds for a sustainable and resilient agricultural future.