Miraa farmers on the spot as government moves to streamline industry

The government has rolled out a new code that will change the production, handling and distribution of miraa.

In a statement, Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) Managing Director Bernard Njiraini said the new code of practice will ensure high hygiene standards when the product is moved from the farm to customers.

“The new guidelines will be used by the sector regulators for registration and certification of operators along the entire value chain. This will facilitate businesses to meet market and pre-export sanitary and phytosanitary requirements,” Njiraini said.

The new code dubbed Kenya National Workshop Agreement industry requires operators in the miraa supply chain from farmers, propagators and aggregators to transporters and cargo handlers to observe hygiene.

Under the new guidelines, those involved in the value chain of supply to keep relevant records and labelling system which demonstrate traceability while adhering to relevant health and sanitation guidelines.