The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition (MAFSN) leads agricultural policy, extension and research, veterinary and plant health services, and food systems development.
For investors, the Ministry provides the regulatory pathway for inputs (seeds, fertiliser, veterinary medicines), primary production permits, SPS (sanitary and phytosanitary) measures, and certifications for agricultural trade. It also coordinates with LNDC for agro‑processing and with water authorities for irrigation schemes.
Regulatory Framework – Scope and Coverage
The Ministry’s scope includes: agricultural extension and research; veterinary services and animal health certification; plant protection and phytosanitary certification; input controls and import permits for seeds/fertilisers/agro‑chemicals; food safety interfaces for abattoirs/dairies; and irrigation policy coordination.
Regulatory Map: Who Does What
| Area | Primary Authority / Instrument | What it Means for Investors |
|---|---|---|
| SPS (veterinary/phyto) | Veterinary Services and Plant Protection (MAFSN) | Animal/plant health clearances and export certificates. |
| Import permits | MAFSN / Department of Marketing and relevant boards | Import permits for agricultural products and inputs. |
| Food processing compliance | MAFSN and standards bodies | Abattoir/dairy approvals; hygiene and inspection regimes. |
| Irrigation and water | MAFSN with Water, LLWDP/LEWA/WASCO | Access to schemes; water allocations for agro‑projects. |
| Research and extension | Dept. of Agricultural Research; extension services | Technology transfer and farmer support. |
Investor‑Facing Services and Processes
| Service/Process | Steps | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| SPS certification | Apply for inspection/testing → issue vet/phyto certificate | Compliance for export/import cargo |
| Import permits | Submit product dossiers → approvals per schedules | Permits for lawful import and distribution |
| Agro‑processing approvals | Facility designs → hygiene/inspection → licensing | Authorisation to operate abattoir/dairy/packhouse |
| Irrigation scheme access | Project proposal → water allocation and EandS approvals | Water access for production clusters |