Kenya Launches Digital Traceability System to Strengthen Horticulture Exports
Kenya has launched a new digital platform aimed at improving the traceability of horticultural produce and helping exporters comply with increasingly stringent international market requirements.
On June 23, the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) unveiled the National Horticulture Traceability System (NHTS), a platform that tracks fresh produce from individual farms through the supply chain to export markets. The system also digitizes key regulatory services, including licensing, registration and phytosanitary certification, allowing exporters to complete several approval processes online.
According to AFA, the upgraded platform is designed to streamline horticultural trade while improving transparency, efficiency and service delivery across the value chain.
“The upgraded system is designed to streamline horticulture produce traceability, export and import processes, licensing and registration, thereby enhancing transparency, efficiency and service delivery across the value chains,” the authority said in a statement.
The launch comes as Kenya works to safeguard its position as a leading horticultural exporter amid tighter food safety and traceability requirements, particularly in the European Union. Importing countries are increasingly demanding detailed information on the origin and movement of agricultural products, making digital traceability systems essential for market access.
Recent export data highlights the challenge. According to the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS), Kenya recorded 43 pest-related interceptions of horticultural exports in 2024, comprising 19 flower consignments and 24 fruit and vegetable shipments. Authorities also reported 77 interceptions linked to documentation errors and 80 notifications for pesticide residue levels exceeding permitted limits, up from 50 cases the previous year.
The government expects the new system to strengthen monitoring throughout the supply chain, reduce export rejections and protect the reputation of Kenyan produce in international markets.
Beyond horticulture, the government plans to extend the digital traceability platform to other agricultural value chains, including maize, coconuts and macadamia nuts, as Kenya positions itself to meet evolving global food safety and sustainability standards.
