A Historic Gathering for Hemp’s Future in Kenya 

Nairobi, Kenya – January 20, 2025 – The Kenya Hemp Ecosystem Conference (KEHE CON 2025) was a groundbreaking event that marked a pivotal moment in East Africa’s journey toward industrial hemp adoption. Held at the Villa Rosa Kempinski, the conference brought together more than 100 attendees, including government representatives, regulatory bodies, farmers, industry experts, and international stakeholders. The event underscored the significant role hemp can play in Kenya’s sustainable economic development, paving the way for future industry advancements. 

Setting the Stage for Growth 

Under the theme “Unlocking the Potential of Hemp for Sustainable Development,” KEHE CON 2025 provided a platform for collaboration, policy development, market analysis, and technological innovation. The discussions were centered on creating a strategic roadmap for industrial hemp in Kenya and the broader East African region. 

The conference was inaugurated with the HEMP Kenya 2025 Agenda, introduced by Angel Israel of Savor the World, LLC. This agenda laid the foundation for discussions on economic opportunities, environmental benefits, and the potential for industrial-scale hemp applications in the region. 

Keynotes & Industry Insights 

Several distinguished industry leaders contributed their expertise, highlighting the global advancements, regulatory challenges, and market opportunities in the hemp sector: 

• Patrick Atagi, President of the National Industrial Hemp Council (NIHC), delivered a keynote on the global future of industrial hemp, emphasizing Africa’s role in the growing bio-based economy. 

• Paul Stanford (The Hemp and Cannabis Foundation) provided a historical perspective on hemp’s evolution and global market impact. 

• Dr. Zoey (Zimbabwe Industrial Hemp Trust) spoke on Africa’s emerging role in industrial hemp innovation and sustainable solutions. 

• Trey Riddle (IND HEMP) shared insights into hemp processing, animal feed applications, and industrial uses, showcasing innovative approaches to utilizing the whole plant. 

• Rusty Peterson (IND HEMP) presented on carbon credits and hemp’s role in global decarbonization efforts, highlighting the plant’s potential for carbon sequestration and regenerative agriculture. 

• Joe Hickey (Kentucky Hemp Association) addressed challenges and opportunities for farmers navigating the evolving industrial hemp market. 

Innovation, Sustainability & Rural Development 

Discussions on agronomy, sustainability, and economic opportunities were a focal point of the conference, featuring: 

• Paul Benhaim (The Hemp Plastic Company) presenting on biodegradable hemp-based plastics and sustainable material alternatives. 

• Olufemi Ajayi (Alabama State University) outlining best practices in integrated pest management and environmental protection in hemp cultivation. 

• Greg Wilson (Hempwood) discussing industrial forests and hemp’s role in reducing deforestation. 

• James Dedecker (Michigan State University) sharing insights on hemp agronomy, pest management, and varietal performance. 

• Cedric Nwafor (Roots Africa) highlighting hemp’s ability to empower smallholder farmers and drive rural transformation. 

• Dr. Joyce Misoi (Kenya Mines Agency) exploring hemp’s synergy with the mining sector, focusing on sustainable land restoration. 

The discussions reflected a unified vision for advancing hemp across Africa while integrating innovative solutions for sustainable industries, agriculture, and economic empowerment. 

IND HEMP’s Site Visits & Strategic Collaborations in Kenya 

Beyond the conference, IND HEMP embarked on several key site visits across Kenya, deepening our understanding of the country’s agricultural strengths and industrial potential for hemp. 

• Sisal Plantation in Kilifi: We toured a large sisal plantation on Kenya’s East Coast, observing the efficiency of fiber processing operations and identifying ways in which industrial hemp could complement existing supply chains. Kenya’s fiber expertise presents a strong opportunity to integrate hemp into textile and composite material production, further enhancing the country’s manufacturing capacity. 

• Commercial Multi-Crop Operation: We visited a major commercial farm specializing in various bean crops, where we gained valuable insights into their regenerative farming practices. The operation showcased successful land stewardship, emphasizing soil health, crop rotation, and sustainable water management. Their approach aligns with IND HEMP’s commitment to regenerative agriculture, reinforcing the potential for integrating hemp into diversified farming systems that prioritize long-term soil vitality and economic resilience. 

• Oil & Gas Refinery in Mombasa: Our team also toured a major oil and gas refinery in Mombasa, engaging in discussions about biobased materials and sustainable alternatives. This visit provided valuable insights into potential industrial applications for hemp-based biofuels and bioplastics. 

• Cultural Exchange & Relationship Building: A key part of our journey included an honored invitation to a traditional Kenyan barbecue, where we were served roast goat, a customary dish for distinguished guests. This experience reinforced the importance of building strong cultural and business relationships as we work toward advancing industrial hemp in the region. 

• One-on-One Meetings with Government Officials: IND HEMP held direct discussions with state officials and industry stakeholders to explore regulatory pathways, market expansion strategies, and investment opportunities. These conversations emphasized the importance of integrating hemp into Kenya’s agricultural framework to benefit both large-scale operations and smallholder farmers. 

Africa’s Unique Industrial Hemp Potential 

Africa presents an extraordinary ecosystem for industrial hemp, with fertile land, diverse climates, and a growing demand for regenerative industries. The continent’s unique agricultural conditions allow for year-round hemp cultivation, offering a sustainable alternative to resource-intensive crops. 

The development of an integrated hemp supply chain in Africa could unlock significant economic potential by utilizing every part of the plant—from fiber and hurd for textiles and construction, to seeds and oil for nutrition and biofuel. This holistic approach would create scalable opportunities for large farms and smallholder communities, fostering job creation, rural development, and environmental restoration. If that is, the multiple challenges, seen as opportunities, can be handled. 

Other Notable Mentions 

Kenya’s heavy reliance on imported livestock feed at premium prices presents a significant opportunity for hemp-based animal nutrition solutions. Throughout our site visits and discussions, it became clear that industrial hemp can serve as a sustainable, cost-effective alternative for livestock feed, addressing both nutritional value and supply chain challenges. Given the region’s need for high-quality, locally sourced feed, IND HEMP sees strong potential in integrating hemp seed meal and fiber into the animal nutrition sector, providing farmers with a more affordable and nutrient-rich option. Additionally, IND HEMP will be supporting U.S. hemp seed for variety trials in Kenya, ensuring that the most adaptable and high-yielding genetics are identified for the region’s climate and soil conditions. Beyond this, our work with U.S. research institutions and laboratories continues to drive innovation in Combined Heat and Power (CHP) applications, cellulosic ethanol production, and biofuel development for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The conversations we had in Kenya reinforced our strategic direction, confirming that hemp oil is an increasingly viable feedstock for renewable energy solutions. With growing global interest in bio-based fuels and sustainable industrial applications, IND HEMP is well-positioned to support both agricultural and energy transitions in East Africa and beyond. 

IND HEMP’s Commitment to the Future of Hemp in Africa 

As a result of our engagement in Kenya, IND HEMP is committed to actively supporting industrial hemp’s growth in East Africa. We are already exploring potential exports to Kenya to assist with R&D and market trials, helping local stakeholders develop practical applications for hemp-based solutions. 

Our team is also focused on fostering public-private partnerships, sharing agronomic expertise, and helping build infrastructure that can support the region’s long-term hemp industry development. 

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Hemp in Kenya 

The success of KEHE CON 2025 is only the beginning of a larger movement toward a industrial hemp sector in Africa. With continued collaboration between policymakers, investors, and industry leaders, Kenya is positioned to find out if they can become a regional leader in sustainable hemp-based industries. 

IND HEMP is proud to be part of this journey, and we look forward to working alongside our Kenyan partners to unlock the full potential of industrial hemp for economic growth, environmental restoration, and global innovation. 

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