Project in Africa showcased at Kenya Hemp Conference 2025
From left to right: Bret Tate, Agricultural Counselor US Embassy Nairobi, Patrick Atagi and Veronica Frantz of NIHC, Joe Hickey of Kentucky Hemp Growers Co-op, Morris Beegle of WAFBA, Paul Benhaim of the Hemp Plastics Company, Angel Isreal of Savor the World, and Carol Kamau, US Embassy Nairobi.
(February 28, 2025) - National Industrial Hemp Council (NIHC) worked to expand global market opportunities for U.S. hemp by sponsoring the Kenya Hemp Conference 2025 held in January.
Using USDA Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP) funds, NIHC showcased the versatility and economic potential of industrial hemp while laying the groundwork for U.S.-Africa trade partnerships.
The conference, attended by Kenyan government officials, including the Office of the President, industry leaders, and international stakeholders, focused on Africa’s rapidly evolving hemp industry at various stages of development across different countries. Key discussions centered on bioplastics, animal feed, and regulatory advancements that could create new export opportunities for U.S. businesses.
“The Kenya Hemp Conference was an incredible opportunity to showcase the versatility of U.S. industrial hemp and establish new trade relationships in Africa,” says NIHC President and CEO Patrick Atagi. “With growing global demand for sustainable materials and alternative animal feed solutions, the U.S. hemp industry is well-positioned to support these emerging markets. NIHC looks forward to continuing our work with the US Embassy in Kenya to open doors for U.S. hemp businesses worldwide.”
Key Takeaways
- Hemp for Animal Feed Moves Forward – Kenya accepts hemp for animal feed and laying hens, a critical first step toward expanding hemp-based animal feed in the region. The NIHC is now working on securing initial purchase agreements for hempseed meal. The first American shipments of hemp and human protein successfully arrived in Africa last month.
- Hemp Bioplastics Gain Interest – NIHC delegates met with Coca-Cola franchise owners in Kenya, opening discussions about producing sustainable hemp plastic bottle tops using U.S.-grown hemp plastic pellets.
- Africa’s Hemp Industry is Diverse – Kenya, Zimbabwe, and South Africa are at different stages of hemp industry development. South Africa has large-scale hemp cultivation, while Zimbabwe is actively seeking U.S. hemp imports and technology transfers to support its growing industry. NIHC President & CEO Patrick Atagi was able to meet with the Acting President of Zimbabwe and his cabinet. (See news coverage in Hemp in the News below)
- Government Support is Strong – High-level Kenyan officials, including the Cabinet Secretary of Agriculture, attended the conference and agreed to support the first national industrial hemp trials in Kenya—an essential step toward policy reform and commercial production.
Why This Matters
Trade missions like these are critical for U.S. industrial hemp producers and manufacturers looking to expand their global reach.
Africa presents significant business opportunities in textiles, animal feed, and sustainable materials, offering new markets for U.S.-grown hemp and value-added products. By fostering government and business relationships,
NIHC is positioning U.S. hemp as a trusted global supplier while advocating for policy advancements that enable international trade. As NIHC continues to lead these efforts, the organization remains committed to building strong trade networks that drive economic growth and sustainability for the U.S. hemp industry.