< Back FAEA Drives Key Progress in Kenya’s Food Safety Legislation March 2021 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. Previous Next

< Back FAEA Kicks Off Support for Kenya’s New Food Safety Legislation December 2020 In December 2020, FAEA took a significant step in supporting Kenya’s food and feed safety regulatory overhaul by sponsoring and facilitating a five-day meeting in Naivasha, Kenya. The meeting marked the official restart of Kenya’s food safety legislation process, bringing together key stakeholders across multiple ministries, technical experts and international advisors. This initiative was a vital part of Kenya’s journey to develop a comprehensive Food Safety Law that aligns with global best practices while addressing the unique challenges within the country. FAEA’s involvement began in mid-September 2020 with the recruitment of a local coordinator and the reactivation of a technical working group—now a task force—composed of representatives from the Ministries of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, Health, and Trade, as well as agencies like the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service, the Kenya Dairy Board and the Kenya Law Reform Commission. The task force has a broad mandate to review, refine and guide the development of Kenya’s food and feeds safety policy and legislation. The Naivasha meeting served as a critical first step, focusing on establishing a clear roadmap for drafting the food safety bill. Discussions were centered on reviewing a draft policy document that had been initially developed in 2019, incorporating new regulatory concerns and aligning with current governance structures under Kenya’s 2010 constitution. A key highlight was the strong support demonstrated by the highest levels of government, with six Principal Secretaries attending from key ministries. Their participation underscored the importance of unity in purpose and a commitment to establishing a well-coordinated and robust food and feed safety system. The meeting’s outcomes were substantial. Consensus was reached on several crucial aspects of the draft food and feed safety policy, leading to significant improvements in its content. The revised policy will serve as the foundation for drafting the food and feed safety bill. However, the discussions also revealed critical areas that still require attention, particularly the complex coordination mechanisms needed to integrate the mandates of various agencies effectively. The task force agreed to continue these deliberations in future meetings. The Naivasha retreat also underscored the importance of engaging external experts to provide insights from global food safety systems. Presentations by experts from the U.S. Trade Representative Office (USTR) and TradeMark East Africa enriched the discussions, with their experiences helping to shape decision-making processes. This collaborative approach, combining local expertise with international insights, is expected to be a hallmark of the legislative process moving forward. Looking ahead, the task force plans to ramp up its efforts by focusing on finalizing the coordination framework, refining the draft bill based on the updated policy and engaging parliamentary committees to align legislative efforts. As Kenya moves closer to enacting a new Food Safety Law, FAEA’s role in facilitating these discussions is crucial in ensuring the final legislation is scientifically sound, internationally compliant and tailored to the needs of the Kenyan food and feed sectors. FAEA remains committed to supporting this critical process, recognizing that a well-structured food safety system is not only essential for public health but also key to unlocking trade opportunities and enhancing Kenya’s competitiveness in global markets. Previous Next

American Feed Industry Association The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA), based in Arlington, Va., is the world’s largest organization devoted exclusively to representing the business, legislative and regulatory interests of the U.S. animal food industry and its suppliers. AFIA’s members include over 650 domestic and international companies, such as livestock feed and pet food manufacturers, integrators, pharmaceutical companies, ingredient suppliers, equipment manufacturers and supply companies that provide other products or services to feed manufacturers. Several state, national and regional associations are also AFIA members. https://www.nppc.org

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Kenya FAEA has been actively involved in supporting Kenya’s food safety journey since 2019, playing a pivotal role in drafting and developing of the Food and Feed Safety Control Coordination Bill. Through collaboration with Kenyan government ministries and local stakeholders, FAEA has helped guide the creation of a robust food safety framework aligned with global best practices. With the pending passage of the bill, FAEA continues its commitment to advancing food safety initiatives that position Kenya as a leader in the East African Community (EAC). KEY INITIATIVES FAEA-Kenya 1-Pager Regulatory Enhancement: Since 2019, FAEA has supported Kenya’s efforts to draft and refine its food and feed safety regulations. By facilitating key meetings, task force engagements and expert consultations, FAEA helped shape a comprehensive bill that aligns with international standards. Now, FAEA is focused on supporting the Kenyan government in updating and harmonizing these regulations, ensuring they are clear, enforceable and conducive to trade. Capacity Building: In parallel with regulatory work, FAEA is enhancing the capabilities of Kenyan regulatory agencies and private sector stakeholders. By delivering targeted training programs and resources, FAEA equips these groups with the knowledge and skills needed to implement and comply with the updated food safety regulations. These efforts improve the quality of food products and ensure they meet both local and global safety standards. Leadership in Food Safety: FAEA’s strategic involvement in Kenya’s food safety transformation aims to establish the country as a model for food safety excellence within the EAC. Success in Kenya is expected to serve as a blueprint for similar reforms across the region, promoting public health, enhancing trade opportunities, and driving economic growth. FAEA’s commitment to Kenya’s food safety initiatives not only strengthens local safety standards but also fosters a more competitive market for U.S. agricultural exports. As FAEA continues to support Kenya’s regulatory and capacity-building efforts, these initiatives are setting the stage for improved food safety and regulatory leadership across East Africa. PROGRAM UPDATES

Nigeria FAEA is committed to supporting Nigeria's efforts to enhance food safety standards and expand its agricultural sector's economic potential. Our strategy focuses on building technical capacities, engaging with stakeholders and advocating for effective regulatory frameworks that align with international standards. KEY INITIATIVES: Nigeria World Food Safety Day 2024 Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Regulatory Support: We provide expertise and input to the Nigerian government in implementing the pending Food Safety and Quality Law to ensure compliance with global standards. Capacity Building: Through training programs and technical support, we enhance the skills of Nigerian Food Business Operators (FBOs) to meet new food safety regulations. Stakeholder Engagement: We foster collaborations between government bodies, educational institutions and industry groups to create a unified approach to food safety and quality. Policy Advocacy: We support the establishment of clear and consistent regulations that support Nigeria’s public health and trade objectives. By focusing on these strategic areas, FAEA aims to contribute to the advancement of food safety and economic development in Nigeria. PROGRAM UPDATES

ACTIVITY REPORTS Back to "Members Only" Executive Director Trip Report and Workshop in Nigeria, Nov 2023 Executive Director Trip Report Cambodian Food and Feed Safety Delegation to Washington, DC, Dec 2023 Executive Director Trip Report to Kenya, Nov 2023 FAEA staff trip report to Washington, DC, July 2023 FAEA Strategic Planning Report - Final, July 2023 Executive Director Trip Report to Cambodia, Feb 2023 FAEA staff trip report to Washington, DC, July 2022 Executive Director Bangladesh Trip Report, May 2022 Executive Director Kenya Trip Report, December 2021 Meeting Report on the County consultations on Kenya’s Draft Food Safety Policy and Bill, September, 2021. Meeting Report on the Third FAEA-supported Government of Kenya task force meeting on the food safety policy review and legislation drafting, Sep/Oct, 2021. Meeting Report for the Kenya Ministerial Task force Retreat to incorporate comments by the health team into the draft Food Safety Bill, July, 2021. Training Report on Good Hygienic Practices and Food Safety in Hotels and Restaurants in Dhaka, Bangladesh, April, 2021. Meeting Report on the Second FAEA-supported Government of Kenya task force meeting on the food safety policy review and legislation drafting, March, 2021. Meeting Report on the exercise of improving the Kenya Food Safety Policy and Legislation Draft, as a preparation for the Second meeting, February, 2021. Meeting Report on the First FAEA-supported Government of Kenya Task Force Meeting on the Food Safety Policy and Legislation, December, 2020. Myanmar Ministry of Ag Acceptance of FAEA Offer of Assistance, October 2020 FAEA Offer of Assistance to Myanmar Min of Ag, September, 2020. Myanmar Ministry of Agriculture Request for FAEA Assistance - August, 2020. Kenya Ministry of Agriculture Response to FAEA Letter - July, 2020. FAEA Letter to Kenya Ministry of Agriculture - May, 2020. Trip Report Bangladesh - Jan/Feb, 2020. FAS Meeting - Jan, 2020. Trip Report Kenya - Nov, 2019.

Gina Tumbarello Who We Are Leadership Trade Data Contact Us Executive Director Mail Gina Tumbarello serves as the Executive Director of FAEA, where she provides strategic leadership and oversees all day-to-day operations. She is responsible for shaping FAEA's global programs, directing advocacy efforts, and ensuring alignment with international food and feed safety standards. Under her guidance, FAEA plays a critical role in advancing science-based international regulations and addressing non-tariff barriers to trade. Gina works collaboratively with FAEA’s diverse membership to identify challenges, develop effective strategies, and foster partnerships that strengthen global food systems. Gina brings extensive experience in international trade to her role. Prior to joining FAEA, she spent 14 years at the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA), where she spearheaded global initiatives and formulated and executed the U.S. animal food industry's international priorities. Previously, she served as Manager of International Operations at the U.S. Grains Council (USGC), managing market development and access programs in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. Earlier in her career, she excelled as a Project Manager at J.E. Austin Associates, focusing on economic development projects under the World Bank and the U.S. Agency for International Development. Gina holds a master’s degree in International Trade Policy from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey and a bachelor’s degree in Diplomacy and Foreign Affairs and German from Miami University.

Anne Zaczek Who We Are Leadership Trade Data Contact Us Global Programs Director Mail Anne Zaczek serves as the Director of Global Programs for FAEA, where she supports implementation of initiatives that enhance global food and feed safety systems. With over 14 years of experience in organizational and international program management, Zaczek oversees FAEA’s capacity-building programs, regulatory advocacy efforts, and stakeholder engagement activities. Her work focuses on fostering international partnerships with local governments, universities, private organizations, and food and feed producer communities to address critical challenges and promote science-based international standards. Anne has also served as the Executive Director of the Heirloom Cacao Preservation Fund (HCP) since 2018, where she has provided steady leadership, enhancing the organization’s infrastructure, advancing capacity-building programs, and fostering strategic partnerships that have notably expanded its global impact. Anne's expertise spans mission-driven operations, grant acquisition, and fostering collaborations with local governments, universities, private organizations, and farming communities. Prior to joining HCP, Anne served as Manager of Global Development Programs at the U.S. Grains Council, overseeing multi-million-dollar projects across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Notably, she oversaw the Tanzania Food for Progress (FFP) program, which advanced the feed milling and poultry industries while strengthening industry associations, including the Tanzania Poultry Association and the Tanzania Feed Millers Association. She also played a key role in launching the Tanzania Poultry Show, now a cornerstone event for the region's poultry sector, further strengthening industry linkages. Anne also managed the Council’s UES submission for Market Access Programs (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD) funding, which supported the expansion of U.S. agricultural exports of corn, barley and sorghum in key international markets. Furthermore, she oversaw the planning, program implementation, and financial oversight for global programs. Anne holds a Bachelor of Science in International Studies from the Rochester Institute of Technology with a focus in International Business and a minor in Marketing. Her commitment to strengthening organizations, building farmer capacity, and ensuring the sustainability of agricultural programs positions her as a transformational leader in the global agricultural community.

Bangladesh Program Updates Review of Bangladesh’s Import Policy Order: A Comparative Analysis of Regional Standards and Recommendations for Improvement April 2024 In April 2024, FAEA commissioned research to evaluate Bangladesh’s Import Policy Order (IPO) 2021-2024 against the import regulations and standards adopted by other key Asian countries engaged in animal feed and feed additive trade with the U.S., such as Indonesia, South Korea, Vietnam and the Philippines. The analysis focuses on key concerns like radioactivity, antibiotic use, GMOs and the lack of a risk-based approach, comparing these to international standards set by bodies like Codex and WOAH. The findings highlight areas where Bangladesh could benefit from clearer language and a more scientifically sound, risk-based framework. MORE INFO

American Feed Industry Association The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA), based in Arlington, Va., is the world’s largest organization devoted exclusively to representing the business, legislative and regulatory interests of the U.S. animal food industry and its suppliers. AFIA’s members include over 650 domestic and international companies, such as livestock feed and pet food manufacturers, integrators, pharmaceutical companies, ingredient suppliers, equipment manufacturers and supply companies that provide other products or services to feed manufacturers. Several state, national and regional associations are also AFIA members. https://www.ussec.org

Bangladesh FAEA, in collaboration with Venture37 and FAS-Dhaka, is actively engaged in enhancing Bangladesh's food and feed safety framework through capacity-building and technical support initiatives. Our collaborative efforts focus on improving infrastructure, advocacy and regulatory coordination to elevate the country's safety and regulatory standards in the agricultural sector. Our strategy involves raising awareness and strategizing on policy and regulatory updates to modernize Bangladesh's legislative framework, aligning it with international standards and enhancing global compliance. KEY INITIATIVES Advocacy Empowerment: We empower local feed and animal production associations in policy advocacy, stakeholder engagement and strategic communication, enabling them to advocate effectively for modern food and feed safety policies. Regulatory Modernization: We drive awareness and strategize on policy and regulatory updates to modernize Bangladesh's legislative framework, aiming for alignment with international standards and enhanced global compliance. FAEA is committed to supporting Bangladesh in achieving a more coordinated, efficient, and globally compliant food safety system, ensuring the safety and quality of its food products. PROGRAM UPDATES