Kenyan farmers are celebrating a massive victory after the High Court struck down the Kenya Seed and Plant Varieties Act, terming it unconstitutional. The law had threatened smallholder farmers with fines and even jail time for sharing or exchanging uncertified seeds, something they have practiced for generations and consider essential for survival and community resilience.

The case, backed by Greenpeace Africa, challenged the government’s attempt to criminalize traditional seed sharing.

With today’s ruling, farmers have regained control over their indigenous seeds and secured protection for the natural seed systems that have sustained Kenyan families for centuries.

Greenpeace Africa offices exploded into celebration when the decision was delivered on November 27, 2025. Many said this victory belongs not only to them but to their children and grandchildren, whose futures depend on free access to natural seeds and traditional farming knowledge.

This ruling marks a major turning point for agriculture in Kenya. Farmers can now save, use, and share indigenous seeds without fear of punishment.