NAKURU, Kenya – In a significant operation, the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have confiscated counterfeit maize seeds in Njoro Sub-County, Nakuru, sending a strong message against agricultural fraud. County Commissioner Lyford Kibaara confirmed the seizure of 13,000 packets of fake seeds valued at approximately Sh 13 million.
According to Kenya News Agency, the illicit seeds were discovered in a local timber yard, marking a concerning trend where fraudulent individuals exploit the agricultural sector during key planting seasons. He emphasized the necessity for farmers to verify seed certification through KEPHIS to avoid losses in productivity and financial investment.
During the operation, law enforcement officials uncovered additional items, including fake Kenya Seed Company stickers, sewing machines, and packaging materials, all intended for the illicit preparation and distribution of the counterfeit seeds. Kibaara detailed that the Hybrid 6213 maize variety was specifically targeted in this scheme, with the seeds packaged deceitfully to mimic legitimate products.
The County Commissioner also highlighted ongoing government efforts to enforce agricultural standards, including the active involvement of National Government Administration Officers and collaboration with the National Police Service and licensed seed companies. These measures aim to protect farmers from counterfeit products that could undermine Kenya’s food security and economic stability.
Simon Maina, Head of Seed Certification and Plant Variety Protection at KEPHIS, advised farmers nationwide to remain vigilant against dishonest seed traders. He outlined the process for verifying seed authenticity, including checking for KEPHIS labels and utilizing a USSD code service for seed validation.
The incident underscores the broader challenges facing Kenya’s agricultural sector, with counterfeit seeds posing a significant threat to crop yields and food production. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to addressing this issue through surveillance, inspection, and strict enforcement of existing agricultural laws.
One suspect, identified as Stephen Gicharu, was apprehended in connection with the operation and has been charged under the Seeds and Plant Varieties Act, which prescribes severe penalties for violations, including substantial fines and imprisonment.
KEPHIS and its partners remain dedicated to safeguarding the integrity of Kenya’s agricultural inputs, ensuring that farmers have access to certified, high-quality seeds essential for the nation’s agricultural productivity and food security.