In central Kenya, a growing legal challenge has emerged against a 2012 law that bans seed sharing, a practice that millions of farmers once relied on to reduce production costs. The dispute comes as indigenous seeds prove increasingly vital due to their resilience against climate change, pests, and diseases. Advocates argue that such seeds, which have adapted to local conditions over time, outperform costly hybrid seeds, especially in marginal areas. Recent incidents of counterfeit seed sales, which led to Kenyan farmers losing tens of thousands of dollars, have further highlighted the risks associated with relying solely on commercial seeds. As over a dozen farmers, including community seed conservator Francis Ngiri, take the government to court, critics claim that the ban not only burdens farmers financially but also undermines food security initiatives.
Source: VOA