At the end of September, our colleague Stella supported MRL sensitization workshops, focusing on reaching out to over 80 technical assistants and agronomists who play a crucial role in supporting the export market value chains, in Kenya.
These training events were organized by CropLife Kenya/aak-GROW in collaboration with partners, including the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB), Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS), Horticultural Crops Directorate of the Food and Agriculture Authority (HCD), Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI), Fresh Produce Consortium of Kenya (FPCK), Fresh Produce Exporters Association of Kenya (FPEAK), and Solidaridad.
Stella shared insights based on the CropLife eLearning modules on MRLs, consumer safety, and trade, specifically during the sessions on understanding MRLs, how they are set, and the nexus with international trade and food safety. She contributed to enhancing the understanding of MRLs and fostering discussions on overcoming current MRL challenges for technical assistants, agronomists, and the farmers they represent.
Participants also benefitted from other experts discussing key topics such as understanding MRL market requirements, illegal and counterfeit pesticides, calibration, baseline study results on MRL surveillance, traceability systems, and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP).