Kenya has moved to secure its Sh102 billion horticultural export market by establishing an agency to ensure adherence to standards and quality.

The Kenya Horticultural Council (KHC) will ensure all processes from cultivation to chemical application, packaging, transportation and marketing comply with the newly introduced quality standards for flowers and ornamentals (KS1758 Part 1) as well as the fruits and vegetables (KS1758 Part 2) guidelines.

The Kenya Flower Council (KFC) and the Fresh Produce Exporters Association of Kenya (FPEAK) welcomed the development saying it will boost confidence in local produce while helping improve the safety of produce.

Acting KHC chairman Richard Fox said all fresh produce will be subjected to KHC scrutiny thereby curbing produce containing prohibited chemical levels.

“KHC creates a single strong platform where all players will be held accountable. It will address common issues affecting the industry from numerous interceptions at the marketplace occasioned by a myriad factors…,” he said.

Kenya Bureau of Standards MD Charles Ongwae said its quality management system will act as a reference point for all players thereby ensuring fresh produce sold locally and abroad is safe.