Building on the momentum from December 2020’s initial task force meeting in Naivasha, FAEA and USDA continued their support of Kenya’s food and feed safety regulatory overhaul by facilitating a crucial follow-up event in March 2021. This meeting marked a significant next step in Kenya’s journey toward enacting comprehensive food safety legislation that aligns with international best practices.

The gathering brought together top officials from multiple ministries, technical experts and international advisors with the primary objective of drafting a food safety bill based on the updated policy established in the previous meetings. The discussions focused on refining the draft policy document and aligning it with Kenya’s current governance structures and international commitments. By emphasizing a risk-based approach grounded in science, the draft bill aims to address Kenya’s unique food safety challenges while setting a strong legal foundation for future regulatory efforts.

A notable outcome of the meeting was the completion of a draft food safety bill that not only outlines clear mandates for various regulatory agencies but also resolves longstanding issues related to coordination and overlapping responsibilities. The task force members worked late into the evenings, demonstrating their dedication to producing a bill that balances regulatory clarity with effective food safety control measures.

The participation of high-level government officials, including multiple Principal Secretaries, reaffirmed the commitment to a unified approach and the importance of collaboration across ministries. Presentations from U.S. food safety regulators and other international experts provided valuable insights, helping the task force navigate the complexities of creating a regulatory framework that is both nationally relevant and globally compliant.

Looking ahead, the task force will focus on engaging parliamentary committees, finalizing the coordination framework, and conducting broader stakeholder consultations. These next steps are critical as Kenya moves closer to enacting a food safety law that not only safeguards public health but also positions the country for enhanced trade opportunities.