Kenya Hemp Conference 2025: Pioneering Industrial Hemp in East Africa
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02/20/25 • 69 min
"Hemp in Africa: Highlights from KEHE Con 2025"
Welcome back to the Let's Talk Hemp podcast! I'm your host, Morris Beagle, and today we have an exciting episode as we dive into the first-ever Kenya Hemp Conference, KEHE Con 2025, held in Nairobi, Kenya. This landmark event brought together policymakers, farmers, industry leaders, and international stakeholders to discuss the future of industrial hemp in East Africa.
We start the episode by wishing everyone a happy new year and sharing our plans for more consistent podcast episodes in 2025. We also give a shoutout to our sponsor, Her Many Voices, for their continued support.
The Kenya Hemp Conference, held at the prestigious Villa Rosa Kempinski Hotel, was a historic event with over 100 attendees and a lineup of expert speakers. The conference covered a wide range of topics, including hemp agronomy, processing, applications in plastics, animal feed, and carbon sequestration. The goal was to lay the groundwork for developing a hemp industry in Kenya and beyond.
In this episode, we feature interviews with nine key voices from the conference:
Paul Kirika from the National Museums of Kenya, who shares his excitement about the endless opportunities in hemp cultivation and its potential to transform local and export economies.
Lusike Ajayi, Director of Crop Systems in Kenya, who discusses the importance of underutilized fruits and the potential of industrial hemp to replace plastics and support sustainable agriculture.
Dr Rizike Mwadalu from the Kenya Forest Research Institute, who highlights the potential of industrial hemp for carbon sequestration and soil management.
Dennis Itumbi from the President's office, who emphasizes the need for policy changes and the importance of moving from policy discussions to practical implementation on farms.
Cedric Nwafor from Roots Africa, who talks about connecting U.S. academic institutions with African farming communities and the potential of industrial hemp to transform local economies.
Rusty Peterson from IND Hemp, who discusses the importance of sustainability and the potential of industrial hemp to meet UN SDG goals.
Olufemi Ajayi from Alabama State University, who shares insights on integrated pest management and the importance of legalizing industrial hemp in Kenya.
Kingwa Kamencu from Blackstar Media, who talks about the business and spiritual aspects of hemp and the potential of hempwood and hemp food products.
Sankara Sankie member of event organizing team and eight plus year advocate and industrial hemp educator.
Throughout the episode, we explore the various applications of industrial hemp, from food and animal feed to biodegradable plastics and carbon credits. The enthusiasm and optimism of the speakers highlight the potential of industrial hemp to drive economic development, sustainability, and innovation in Kenya and beyond.
Sponsor Acknowledgment
A big thank you to our sponsor, Her Many Voices, a platform where grassroots activism meets indigenous wisdom to benefit all of Earth's inhabitants. Visit them at hermanyvoices.org
TIMESTAMP
00:00:00 - Introduction and New Year Wishes
00:00:45 - Overview of Kenya Hemp Conference
00:02:32 - Interview with Paul Kirika: National Museums of Kenya
00:05:27 - Hemp's Role in Food and Animal Feed
00:07:04 - Legalization and Policy Challenges in Kenya
00:10:23 - Final Thoughts from Paul Kirika
00:11:22 - Interview with Lusike Wasilwa: Crop Systems Director
00:13:01 - Lusike's Experience with Industrial Crops
00:15:06 - Hemp's Potential in Replacing Plastics
00:17:03 - Hemp's Economic and Environmental Benefits
00:20:42 - Future of Hemp in Kenya: Lusike's Perspective
00:22:43 - Interview with Dr. Riziki Mudalu: Kenya Forest Research Institute
00:25:10 - Dr. Riziki on Carbon Sequestration and Soil Management
00:27:00 - Optimism for Hemp Legalization in Kenya
00:29:29 - Final Thoughts from Dr. Riziki
00:29:44 - Interview with Dennis from the President's Office
00:30:27 - Dennis on Conference Insights and Policy Issues
00:32:04 - U.S. Support for Kenya's Hemp Industry
00:33:23 - Final Thoughts from Dennis
00:33:44 - Interview with Cedric Nwafo: Roots Africa
00:33:59 - Cedric's Background and Roots Africa's Mission
00:34:49 - Farmers' Interest in Industrial Hemp
00:35:22 - Conference Insights and Applications for Smallholder Farmers
00:37:14 - Final Thoughts from Cedric
00:38:11 - Interview with Rusty Peterson: IND Hemp
00:38:45 - Rusty's Impressions of Kenya and the Conference
00:39:14 - Opportunities for IND Hemp in Kenya
00:41:01 - Rusty on Carbon Credi...
"Hemp in Africa: Highlights from KEHE Con 2025"
Welcome back to the Let's Talk Hemp podcast! I'm your host, Morris Beagle, and today we have an exciting episode as we dive into the first-ever Kenya Hemp Conference, KEHE Con 2025, held in Nairobi, Kenya. This landmark event brought together policymakers, farmers, industry leaders, and international stakeholders to discuss the future of industrial hemp in East Africa.
We start the episode by wishing everyone a happy new year and sharing our plans for more consistent podcast episodes in 2025. We also give a shoutout to our sponsor, Her Many Voices, for their continued support.
The Kenya Hemp Conference, held at the prestigious Villa Rosa Kempinski Hotel, was a historic event with over 100 attendees and a lineup of expert speakers. The conference covered a wide range of topics, including hemp agronomy, processing, applications in plastics, animal feed, and carbon sequestration. The goal was to lay the groundwork for developing a hemp industry in Kenya and beyond.
In this episode, we feature interviews with nine key voices from the conference:
Paul Kirika from the National Museums of Kenya, who shares his excitement about the endless opportunities in hemp cultivation and its potential to transform local and export economies.
Lusike Ajayi, Director of Crop Systems in Kenya, who discusses the importance of underutilized fruits and the potential of industrial hemp to replace plastics and support sustainable agriculture.
Dr Rizike Mwadalu from the Kenya Forest Research Institute, who highlights the potential of industrial hemp for carbon sequestration and soil management.
Dennis Itumbi from the President's office, who emphasizes the need for policy changes and the importance of moving from policy discussions to practical implementation on farms.
Cedric Nwafor from Roots Africa, who talks about connecting U.S. academic institutions with African farming communities and the potential of industrial hemp to transform local economies.
Rusty Peterson from IND Hemp, who discusses the importance of sustainability and the potential of industrial hemp to meet UN SDG goals.
Olufemi Ajayi from Alabama State University, who shares insights on integrated pest management and the importance of legalizing industrial hemp in Kenya.
Kingwa Kamencu from Blackstar Media, who talks about the business and spiritual aspects of hemp and the potential of hempwood and hemp food products.
Sankara Sankie member of event organizing team and eight plus year advocate and industrial hemp educator.
Throughout the episode, we explore the various applications of industrial hemp, from food and animal feed to biodegradable plastics and carbon credits. The enthusiasm and optimism of the speakers highlight the potential of industrial hemp to drive economic development, sustainability, and innovation in Kenya and beyond.
Sponsor Acknowledgment
A big thank you to our sponsor, Her Many Voices, a platform where grassroots activism meets indigenous wisdom to benefit all of Earth's inhabitants. Visit them at hermanyvoices.org
TIMESTAMP
00:00:00 - Introduction and New Year Wishes
00:00:45 - Overview of Kenya Hemp Conference
00:02:32 - Interview with Paul Kirika: National Museums of Kenya
00:05:27 - Hemp's Role in Food and Animal Feed
00:07:04 - Legalization and Policy Challenges in Kenya
00:10:23 - Final Thoughts from Paul Kirika
00:11:22 - Interview with Lusike Wasilwa: Crop Systems Director
00:13:01 - Lusike's Experience with Industrial Crops
00:15:06 - Hemp's Potential in Replacing Plastics
00:17:03 - Hemp's Economic and Environmental Benefits
00:20:42 - Future of Hemp in Kenya: Lusike's Perspective
00:22:43 - Interview with Dr. Riziki Mudalu: Kenya Forest Research Institute
00:25:10 - Dr. Riziki on Carbon Sequestration and Soil Management
00:27:00 - Optimism for Hemp Legalization in Kenya
00:29:29 - Final Thoughts from Dr. Riziki
00:29:44 - Interview with Dennis from the President's Office
00:30:27 - Dennis on Conference Insights and Policy Issues
00:32:04 - U.S. Support for Kenya's Hemp Industry
00:33:23 - Final Thoughts from Dennis
00:33:44 - Interview with Cedric Nwafo: Roots Africa
00:33:59 - Cedric's Background and Roots Africa's Mission
00:34:49 - Farmers' Interest in Industrial Hemp
00:35:22 - Conference Insights and Applications for Smallholder Farmers
00:37:14 - Final Thoughts from Cedric
00:38:11 - Interview with Rusty Peterson: IND Hemp
00:38:45 - Rusty's Impressions of Kenya and the Conference
00:39:14 - Opportunities for IND Hemp in Kenya
00:41:01 - Rusty on Carbon Credi...
Previous Episode
Let's Talk Hemp Environmental Benefits at the Asia International Hemp Expo
Let's Talk Hemp Environmental Benefits at the Asia International Hemp Expo
Welcome back to the Let's Talk Hemp podcast! In this special episode, we are broadcasting live from the final day of the third annual Asia International Hemp Expo. Over the past four days, we've had the pleasure of engaging with industry experts, discussing the latest updates, and exploring the future of hemp.
Key Topics Discussed
Environmental and Sustainability Benefits of Hemp
Paul Iglesia highlighted the numerous environmental benefits of growing industrial hemp, including its role in crop rotation, water usage, and soil health. He emphasized that hemp is a low-maintenance crop that can be easily integrated into existing farming practices without jeopardizing financial stability.
Carbon Credits and Regenerative Agriculture: Paul also discussed how hemp can sequester carbon, making it a valuable crop for carbon credits. He explained the potential for farmers to earn additional income through carbon markets by adopting regenerative agriculture practices.
Hemp in Design and Handicrafts
Dr. Korakot Aromdee shared insights into how hemp is being used in design and handicrafts. His team has been creating furniture and decorative items using hemp, which not only supports local craftsmen but also promotes sustainable practices. He emphasized the health benefits for craftsmen and the economic opportunities for local communities.
Educational and Community Impact
A significant part of the discussion focused on the importance of education and community involvement in the hemp industry. The guests and moderator agreed that educating the public about the benefits of hemp is crucial for its acceptance and growth. This includes dispelling myths and highlighting its various applications, from construction materials to nutritional products.
Audience Interaction
The episode concluded with a Q&A session where audience members asked about the relationship between hemp and bamboo, the potential for hemp in the Philippines, and the importance of education in promoting hemp. The guests provided detailed answers, emphasizing the complementary nature of hemp and bamboo in construction and the promising future of hemp in various industries.
Closing Remarks
As we wrap up this episode and the Asia International Hemp Expo, I want to extend my gratitude to our guests, Dr. Korakot Aromdee and Paul Iglesia, for their invaluable insights. A special thanks to our moderator, Didi, and to all the organizers and participants who made this event a success. Remember, we have only one planet, and hemp offers a sustainable path forward.
TIMESTAMP
00:00:00 - Introduction and Welcome
00:00:36 - Overview of the Asia International Hemp Expo
00:01:07 - Industry Networking and Updates
00:01:28 - Environmental and Sustainability Topics
00:01:51 - Show Sponsor Acknowledgment
00:02:05 - Introduction of Guests
00:02:28 - Benefits of Growing Industrial Hemp
00:03:06 - Crop Rotation and Soil Health
00:04:32 - Water Usage and Inputs for Hemp
00:05:30 - Challenges and Market Demand for Hemp
00:06:00 - Pre-Reserved Crops and Market Demand
00:06:54 - Regulations and Global Perspectives
00:07:07 - Design and Decorative Uses of Hemp
00:08:53 - Introduction to Carbon Credits
00:11:27 - Regenerative Agriculture and Carbon Markets
00:13:59 - Carbon Credit Methodologies
00:16:06 - Resources for Learning About Carbon Credits
00:19:06 - Construction Materials and Carbon Sequestration
00:22:10 - Design and Handicraft with Hemp
00:24:57 - Community and Economic Benefits
00:25:54 - Audience Q&A: Education and Awareness
00:30:55 - Commendation for Thai Industrial Hemp Trade Association
00:31:22 - Audience Q&A: Bamboo vs. Hemp
00:37:29 - Audience Q&A: Hemp Policies in the Philippines
00:39:43 - Closing Remarks and Summary
Morris Beegle [email protected]
@morrisbeegle @LetsTalkHemp @NoCoHempExpo @ExperienceHemp @WAFBAofficial
And a new day will dawn for those who stand long and the forests will echo with laughter
Sound Designed by Jamie Humiston -
Next Episode
The Cape Town Tapes: Exploring Hemp Innovations in South Africa
Pioneering Hemp in Africa: Insights from South Africa's Hemp Leaders
Welcome back to the Let's Talk Hemp podcast, Volume Up! I'm your host, Morris Beagle, and today we're diving into the vibrant hemp and cannabis scene in Cape Town, South Africa. After an enriching experience at the Kenya Hemp Conference, I spent nearly three weeks in Cape Town, exploring the local industry and meeting some incredible people.
Highlights from Cape Town
Hemporium and the Hemp Hotel
I had the pleasure of staying at the Hemp Hotel, the tallest hemp structure in the world, with my colleague Paul Benham from the Hemp Plastic Company. The hotel used over 60 tons of hemp in its construction, offering a unique and sustainable experience. Hemporium, a hemp retail shop located in the same building, has been a pioneer in the industry since 1996. Tony Budden, the founder, shared insights into the versatility of hemp and the importance of creating a sustainable market.
Key Conversations
Tony Budden, Hemporium: Tony discussed the challenges and opportunities in the hemp industry, emphasizing the need for local hemp genetics and the potential of biophilic design in creating natural living spaces.
Trenton Birsch, Chiba Africa Hemp and Cannabis Training Academy: Trenton's academy is a government-approved and accredited school, providing essential training in hemp and cannabis cultivation.
Natie Ferreira, Daga Pharmacy Cannabis Farms: Natty, an ornamental horticulturist and agronomist, shared his expertise in hemp and cannabis genetics, highlighting the importance of local adaptation for successful cultivation.
Tanya Clarke, Invigrow: Tanya, who recently relocated from Malawi, has been a significant player in the hemp and cannabis industry. She discussed the regulatory landscape and the potential for regional markets in Africa.
Regulatory Insights
South Africa is making strides with new regulations, including a proposed 2% THC limit, which is more lenient than the current 0.2-0.3% in Europe and the US. This change could significantly benefit local farmers and the industry as a whole.
Future Prospects
The conversations I had in Cape Town were enlightening and inspiring. The local industry is poised for growth, with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation. I look forward to spending more time in South Africa and continuing to amplify the message of hemp's potential.
Sponsor Acknowledgment
A big thank you to our sponsor, Her Many Voices, a platform where grassroots activism meets indigenous wisdom to benefit all of Earth's inhabitants. Visit them at hermanyvoices.org
TIME STAMPS:
00:00:00 - Introduction and Sponsorship
00:00:45 - Cape Town Experience
00:01:27 - NoCo Hemp Expo Announcement
00:01:38 - Cape Town Highlights
00:02:09 - The Hemp Hotel
00:02:20 - Hemporium Store Overview
00:03:13 - Interviews with Industry Leaders
00:03:34 - Introduction to Cape Town Tapes
00:03:46 - Hemporium Store Tour
00:04:19 - Tony Budden Introduction
00:04:34 - Hemporium's Mission
00:05:16 - Industry Challenges and Opportunities
00:05:59 - Relocation to Hemp Hotel
00:06:10 - Hemp Hotel Features
00:07:03 - Biophilic Design Concept
00:07:39 - Global Hemp Industry Insights
00:08:00 - 2% THC Regulation
00:09:37 - Pioneering Hemp Regulations
00:10:39 - Paul Benham's Commentary
00:11:12 - Addressing THC Creep
00:12:05 - Local vs. Imported Varieties
00:13:08 - Building a Regional Market
00:14:01 - Sustainable Industry Goals
00:16:01 - Invitation to Cape Town
00:16:26 - Future of Hemp Regulations
00:17:08 - End Use Focus
00:18:03 - Learning from Global Experiences
00:18:13 - Interview with Tanya Clark
00:19:01 - Tanya's Background and Malawi Experience
00:19:38 - Cannabis and Essential Oils in Malawi
00:20:11 - Industrial Hemp Trials and Lobbying
00:21:17 - Cannabis Regulatory Authority in Malawi
00:22:03 - Medical and Industrial Cannabis in Malawi
00:22:49 - Cannabis Regulatory Framework
00:23:43 - Business Lines and Market Testing
00:24:38 - Regional and Global Market Expansion
00:25:11 - Relocation to Cape Town
00:26:28 - Cape Town's Appeal
00:26:43 - Operating in South Africa
00:27:04 - African Agenda on Global Stage
00:27:15 - Successful Models and Challenges
00:28:01 - Quality Standards and Regulations
00:28:22 - Regional Trade and Market Expansion
00:29:08 - Collaboration with U.S. and Africa
00:30:05 - 2% THC Regulation Impact
00:30:47 - Traditional Healing and Plant Medicine
00:31:08 - Inter-Africa Trade Potential
00:32:06 - Traditional Healing Elements
00:32:41 - Recruiting for Africa
00:33:24 - Interview with Nattie Ferreira
00:34:24 - Na...
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