In a major step toward strengthening agricultural oversight, the Federal Government of Somalia has officially inaugurated a state-of-the-art Laboratory Complex under the Somali Agricultural Regulatory and Inspection Services (SARIS).
The launch was presided over by Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, H.E. Mohamed Abdi Hayir Maareeye, who also announced a strict new regulation to control agricultural imports.
New Regulations on Seeds Imports to Somalia
As of now, no agricultural seeds or pesticides will be allowed into Somalia without prior testing and approval from SARIS.
The move aims to protect Somali farmers from substandard or harmful agricultural inputs and ensure national food security.
“From today onward, anyone who imports agricultural seeds or pesticides into the country without clearance from SARIS will be committing a crime and will be prosecuted under the law,” Minister of Agriculture said.
New Laboratory Complex to Ensure Safer, High-Quality Agricultural Inputs
The newly inaugurated SARIS Laboratory Complex includes three essential units designed to regulate and inspect imported and domestic agricultural materials:
Pesticide Testing Laboratory
This unit will analyze the quality, safety, and environmental impact of pesticides used across Somalia. It is key to preventing the use of harmful or counterfeit chemicals that pose threats to human health, soil fertility, and ecosystems.
Seed Testing Laboratory
This facility will verify that all imported and locally produced seeds are disease-free, viable, and suitable for Somalia’s unique agro-climatic conditions.
It ensures compliance with national agricultural standards and helps farmers access high-yield, resilient seed varieties.
Agricultural Reform for Food Security and Farmer Protection
Minister of Agriculture reiterated commitment to enforcing new agricultural input regulations. Enhancing quality control, and boosting domestic crop production.
These reforms come at a time when Somalia is working to strengthen its food systems, reduce reliance on food imports, and ensure sustainable agricultural development.
