Kenya Poultry Farmers to Pay Sh500k Fine or Risk Jail Term Under New Regulations

To regulate the breeding of poultry in both commercial and subsistence production, the government has introduced The Livestock (Poultry Industry) Regulations 2023.

The Ministry of Agriculture has made the proposal available online, outlining that poultry includes various bird species such as chicken, duck, ostrich, goose, turkey, quail, pigeon, guinea fowl, and any other domesticated wild bird for human consumption or commercial purposes. The power to designate more birds as poultry lies in the hands of the Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi who can do so by issuing a gazette notice. As per the official documents, any farmer who is proven to have disregarded these rules may be subjected to a Sh500,000 fine, imprisonment for a maximum of one year, or both penalties.

The government has set forth a series of regulations to attain various objectives. These objectives encompass the enhancement and coordination of the poultry industry, the enrollment of poultry and breeders, and the advancement of poultry production that is both safe and of superior quality. Furthermore, the government seeks to promote the secure management, preservation, value augmentation, and effective distribution of poultry products.

Farmers must register their poultry, such as chickens, and furnish the requested information. To maintain compliance and proper documentation, an authority called the Livestock Inputs and Products Regulatory Authority will be formed to supervise both physical and digital registers. Individuals engaged in commercial poultry farming within the County Government's jurisdiction are required to maintain a designated register documenting their birds. On the other hand, individuals who raise poultry for non-commercial reasons may also choose to keep a registered record of their birds using a specific format.

Additionally, those who intend to sell poultry equipment must fulfil certain requirements, including registration, possession of a registration certificate, and a valid license issued by the Authority. To maintain the safety and hygiene of the equipment utilized in the production, preparation, grading, packing, storing, and transportation of poultry and poultry products, it is imperative for these individuals to consistently clean and sterilize their equipment appropriately.

They must also ensure the use of uncontaminated water and implement preventive measures to safeguard against animals and pests causing contamination. Additionally, these individuals must handle and store waste and hazardous substances separately and securely, to avoid any contamination of the equipment.