The LAMP Genie machine: Advancing Plant Health Certification through innovation : KEPHIS at the IGA-F Summit

KEPHIS is participating in the Intergovernmental Agricultural Summit from 27th–29th November 2025 in Naivasha, Nakuru County. The event, presided over by the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Sen. Mutahi Kagwe, EGH, brought together sector leaders, researchers, policymakers, development partners and private sector actors to deliberate on transformative approaches for agricultural growth and explore partnerships that will drive the modernization of the sector.

Held under the theme “Strengthening Kenya’s Global Positioning in Agriculture through Technology, Digitization and Innovation,” the Summit provided a platform for KEPHIS to showcase one of its most transformative innovations ; the use of  LAMP Genie III, a portable device for  molecular diagnostics to deliver real-time, on-site pest detection.

This marks a major shift in plant health surveillance. It replaces the traditional practice of collecting samples and transporting them to laboratories for analysis. 

With the LAMP Genie III, KEPHIS inspectors can achieve early pest detection, and protect crop yields more efficiently.

In his remarks, Hon. Mutahi Kagwe, EGH, emphasized the urgent need to enhance soil health. KEPHIS reaffirms its commitment to supporting this agenda by assuring the quality of agricultural inputs  including soil, water and fertilizer while upholding innovation as a core institutional value.

Also present were PS for Livestock Development Hon . Jonathan Mueke, Hon.Joseph M’eruaki, Chairperson KEPHIS Board, Prof. Theophilus Mutui, KEPHIS Managing Director, the Governors of Busia and Bungoma. Other organizations represented included FAO, AFA and PCPB.