This archive report was first published on 23 August 2019.
On August 23, 2019, the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) wrote to two ministries, urging the government to act swiftly to prevent market distortion in the edible oils sector. The body expressed concerns that the released edible oil lacks the required fortification and has been stored at the port for a long period, potentially compromising its quality.
According to KAM, the government's decision to release the edible oil has given an unfair advantage to imported oil, potentially distorting the market. The association has requested the Cabinet Secretary for Industry, Trade and Cooperatives, Peter Munya, and the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and Coordination of National Government, Fred Matiang'i, to reconsider the decision in light of health and safety concerns.
Kenya's government requires that all edible oils imported or sold in the country be fortified with vitamin A to correct or prevent micronutrient deficiency. The consignment in question had been held at the port since May 2018 due to concerns raised by the Multi-Agency Task Force.
“We ask that these allegations be urgently investigated and the required standards upheld in order to safeguard the health and safety of consumers in the country,” KAM stated.
