Kenya’s flower sector, vital for its economy, faces challenges from pests like the false codling moth and strict EU regulations. A significant portion of exports, particularly roses, is at risk, leading to potential revenue loss and market shifts. Farmers explore natural pest control while eyeing less strict markets amidst concerns for the upcoming peak sales periods.
This Valentine’s Day, Kenya’s flower industry is facing significant challenges due to pests and toxic pesticides, which are impacting exports. The red rose, a crucial export valued for its longevity, is significantly affected by the invasive false codling moth that not only targets roses but also other agricultural products. The European Union classifies this pest as a quarantine risk, complicating the export process for Kenyan farmers and leading to increased shipment rejections due to stringent regulations.
The Kenya Flower Council highlights that the detection of just one live moth can result in the rejection of an entire consignment, causing severe financial losses. Jacky Mwanzia from Isinya Roses notes, “They are too strict. Most of our shipments to the EU are quarantined,…we lose about 30% of our revenue.” The flower industry supports half a million people in Kenya and is estimated to generate over $800 million, with roses accounting for about $300 million.
Reports indicate that the EU’s inspection rates for Kenyan roses have increased significantly, complicating compliance for exporters. Recent developments suggest even stricter EU pesticide regulations will be enforced beginning April 2025, which poses further challenges for local growers. While Kenya’s climate is ideal for rose cultivation, it also allows pests to thrive, making the use of hazardous pesticides a common practice despite EU bans on many.
Balancing adherence to EU pesticide regulations while managing pest populations is a complex challenge for exporters. Anantha Kumar from Isinya Roses remarks, “The EU has a strict zero tolerance on caterpillars…we must use [certain chemicals] to meet our production targets.” Consequently, many farmers are exploring other markets, such as the Middle East, that accept their products under less rigid regulations.
Despite these hurdles, Isinya Roses is not abandoning the European market and is investing in natural pest control methods. These methods include releasing beneficial insects, implementing companion planting, and utilizing pheromone traps and organic fertilizers. However, with Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day approaching, farmers still face an uncertain selling season that typically relies on high flower demand.
Kenya’s flower industry is grappling with significant challenges due to invasive pests and stringent EU pesticide regulations, impacting exports and financial stability. With 30% revenue losses for some farmers, there is an urgent need for innovation in pest management and exploring new markets. The continual pressure from regulations emphasizes the importance of developing sustainable agricultural practices to ensure the viability of this critical sector in Kenya’s economy.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
