Nairobi, Kenya – January 20, 2025 – The inaugural Kenya Hemp Conference (KEHE CON) took place at the prestigious Villa Rosa Kempinski, bringing together over 100 attendees from government agencies, regulators, farmers, industry stakeholders, and international operators. The event marked a significant milestone for the region, setting the stage for industrial hemp’s role in sustainable economic development.
A Landmark Event for East Africa’s Hemp Industry
Under the theme Unlocking the Potential of Hemp for Sustainable Development, KEHE CON 2025 provided a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, policy development, and market exploration. The conference aimed to empower attendees with the information and connections needed to drive the growth of industrial hemp in Kenya and across East Africa.
Key Highlights and Discussions
Opening Remarks and Vision
The conference commenced with the introduction of HEMP Kenya Agenda 2025 by Angel Israel of Savor The World, LLC, setting the foundation for the day’s discussions on the economic, environmental, and industrial benefits of hemp.
Keynote Address: The Global Future of Industrial Hemp
Patrick Atagi, President of the National Industrial Hemp Council (NIHC), delivered an inspiring keynote, emphasizing hemp’s role in global sustainability efforts and its economic potential in Africa.
Exploring Hemp’s History and Industrial Applications
- Paul Stanford (The Hemp and Cannabis Foundation) provided a comprehensive History of Hemp: A Global Perspective.
- Trey Riddle (IND Hemp) explored Processing, Animal Feed, and Industrial Applications of Hemp, highlighting innovative uses of the crop.
- Joe Hickey (Kentucky Hemp Association) discussed Farming and Farmers: Challenges and Opportunities in Industrial Hemp, addressing crucial agricultural concerns.
Sustainability and Industry Innovations
- Paul Benhaim (The Hemp Plastic Company) presented on Hemp and Plastics: A Sustainable Future, emphasizing hemp-based alternatives to petroleum-based plastics.
- Dr. Zoey (Zimbabwe Industrial Hemp Trust) spoke on Unlocking Hemp’s Potential in Africa and Beyond, detailing strategies for expansion in emerging markets.
- Rusty Peterson (IND Hemp) discussed Carbon Credits and Beyond: Industrial Hemp, examining hemp’s role in carbon sequestration and green initiatives.
Agronomy, Environmental Protection, and Rural Development
- Olufemi Ajayi (Alabama State University) led a session on Integrated Pest Management and Environmental Protection in Hemp Cultivation.
- James Dedecker (Michigan State University) explored Hemp Agronomy, Pest Management, and Variety Performance in the Midwest U.S.
- Greg Wilson (Hempwood) introduced Industrial Forests as a sustainable alternative to deforestation.
- Cedric Nwafor (Roots Africa) presented Hemp as a Catalyst for Rural Transformation, showcasing the crop’s ability to empower local communities.
- Dr. Joyce Misoi (Kenya Mines Agency) discussed Hemp and Mining: A Green Synergy for Sustainable Development in Kenya, presenting innovative applications in the mining sector.
Hemp Legislation and Market Expansion
- Paul Benhaim introduced Hemp Food, emphasizing the nutritional benefits of hemp-based products.
Sponsors & Partners
The success of KEHE CON 2025 was made possible through the support of industry leaders, including:
- National Industrial Hemp Council of America (NIHC)
- IND Hemp
- Savor the World
- Let’s Talk Hemp
- Experience Hemp International
- Hemp Aware
- Bulk Hemp Warehouse
Conclusion and Future Outlook
KEHE CON 2025 laid a strong foundation for the advancement of the hemp industry in Kenya and East Africa. With expert insights, policy discussions, and strategic networking, the event catalyzed momentum for hemp as a key driver of economic expansion, environmental restoration, and rural development. As the industry moves forward, continued collaboration between stakeholders, policymakers, and investors will be essential in unlocking the full potential of industrial hemp.
The success of KEHE CON 2025 is just the beginning. With a growing global focus on sustainable alternatives and Kenya’s strategic position in Africa, the future of industrial hemp in the region looks brighter than ever.
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