Stakeholders' perspectives on the effects of the European Union’s Green Deal policy initiatives on horticulture export in Kenya

Abstract

The European Union (EU) started implementing the European Green Deal (EGD) policy initiatives through several strategies in 2020 to ensure that Europe attains climate neutrality by 2050. Farm to Fork (F2F) and Biodiversity strategies are among the EGD initiatives implemented by the EU. Data show that the EU is the largest export destination for Kenyan horticultural produce. Adopting the EGD policy initiatives will not only lead to changes in market conditions but also affect the market readiness and competitiveness of Kenya’s horticultural products. This study examined Stakeholders' Perceptions on the effects of F2F and Biodiversity strategies on horticulture exports in Kenya. It also established the challenges and opportunities of implementing the two strategies. The underpinning philosophy of this inquiry was pragmatism. The study adopted the concurrent mixed-method research design. The target population were technical persons in charge of horticulture exports to the EU and horticulture export stakeholders. The stakeholders were export firms and key informants that comprised government agencies, industry associations, and international organisations. Census, stratified, proportionate and simple random sampling techniques were used to select the sample within the identified inclusion criteria. Data was collected from the horticulture exporters using a questionnaire, and interview guides were used to collect data from the key informants. The study's findings indicate that implementing F2F and Biodiversity initiatives was perceived to affect all value chain activities. The initiatives brought about changes in export market requirements and regulations and promoted the production of safe food and the sustainability of the environment. They also caused a decline in the volume of crops produced and exported and an increase in bureaucracy and red tape. The stakeholders believed that lack of resources and inadequate support, loss of jobs, and decline in production and revenues were the main challenges presented by the two initiatives. Controlling pests due to the reduced usage of plant protection products and getting alternatives to chemical fertiliser were also challenges. The stakeholders felt that some EGD requirements are not implementable in Kenya due to ecological and weather factors and resource constraints. The ecological and weather challenges were frequent attacks by pests, disease, unpredictable hot and dry spells and heavy rains, while resource constraints included funds, technology and skills. The findings, however, indicate that F2F and Biodiversity present stakeholders with opportunities to diversify and expand the market, transition to the production of healthier and safer food and adopt practices that promote environmental protection and sustainability. The study recommends adopting and mainstreaming EGD policies in the horticulture sector to tap into the associated opportunities. It also recommends adopting innovative technologies, consultative engagements, and capacity building for the horticultural stakeholders to improve horticultural exports' market readiness and competitiveness.