Kenyan farmers celebrate court ruling that restores right to share indigenous seeds: Video
Kenyan farmers are celebrating a landmark High Court ruling that overturns a long-criticised law restricting the sharing and sale of indigenous seeds, a decision many say restores their agricultural freedom and strengthens local food security.
“We used to fear even having some seeds, because when you were found with them you would be taken to court and fined,” one farmer said. “Now we are very happy because we can preserve our seeds and assist one another, and no farmer will lack seeds.”
Habiba Abdullahi Wabera said seed-sharing not only helps farmers cut the cost of buying commercial seeds but also creates economic opportunities. “We can save money and even earn some by selling our seeds,” she said.
The ruling is also being welcomed as a boost for young people entering agriculture. “It's a good opportunity for the upcoming generation and even the youth without jobs,” said Abdi Nassir. “They will embrace farming and benefit for years to come.”
On Tuesday, November 2, the High Court declared key sections of the Seeds and Plant Varieties Act unconstitutional, effectively decriminalising the saving and sharing of indigenous seeds. Under the previous law, farmers risked up to two years in prison and fines of up to 1 million shillings ($7,700) for exchanging seeds through community seed banks.
Activists argued that the 2012 law, intended to regulate seed production and processing, favoured multinational seed companies while undermining traditional farming systems and biodiversity.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
