Venue: Nairobi, Kenya
In previous conferences we have addressed the issues of traceability for export produce and the demands of the European Union and other countries for appropriate traceability systems. This year we are focused on the needs of our Region and in particular the East African Community. The lack of Food Control Agencies in most EAC member countries, a multiplicity of traceability systems, supplier and consumer ignorance and poor laboratory standards are some of the issues we face as we move towards EAC integration and harmonization.
Analytical Laboratories play an important role in the maintenance of Food Safety Standards and Traceability procedures. It is unfortunate that only a handful of laboratories in the Region are accredited to international standards so that they can provide analytical services to our food and agricultural industries.
As of 1 January 2010 we shall see integration of the East African Community and increasing legal requirements to have all foodstuffs, particularly fresh and frozen produce, subjected to Food Safety and Traceability regulations for cross border trade in the Community.
