The Concept
WRS in Kenya is a transformative agricultural initiative introducing a secure and transparent system for storing and trading commodities. The system simplifies and secures the supply chain by allowing farmers to deposit their produce in licensed warehouses, receiving negotiable warehouse receipts as proof of ownership and quality assurance.
These receipts serve as collateral and empower farmers to access affordable loans. WRS Kenya further facilitates fair trade by connecting farmers directly with the market, ensuring transparent transactions, and eliminating exploitative intermediaries.
Licensed warehouses, strategically located and technologically advanced, provide secure storage, enhancing accessibility and efficiency. In essence, WRS Kenya not only addresses the challenges faced by farmers, especially smallholders, but also catalyzes a positive shift towards financial inclusion, fair market practices, and overall sectoral resilience.
WRS CERTIFICATION PROCESS
- The warehouse operator initiates the process by submitting an application for a Certificate of Conformity to the Warehouse Receipt System Council (WRSC). This application demonstrates the warehouse’s compliance with the WRS Kenya regulations and standards.
The WRSC conducts a thorough inspection of the warehouse operations to assess the operator ability to store and handle agricultural commodities. The inspection team evaluates various aspects, including infrastructure, storage conditions, pest control measures, and safety protocols
Upon satisfactory inspection, the WRSC grants the warehouse operator a Certificate of Conformity, officially recognizing its compliance with WRS Kenya standards
The warehouse operator proceeds to apply for a license from the relevant County Government authority. This application involves submitting the Certificate of Conformity along with other required documentation.
This process involves verification of the Certificate of Conformity along with other required documentation.
- The County Government verifies the application and conducts additional inspections if necessary. Upon meeting all requirements, the County Government grants the warehouse operator a license to operate under the WRS Kenya framework.
WAREHOUSE RECEIPT TRANSACTIONS
Farmers seeking to utilize WRS Kenya services must register with the warehouse operator. This registration process involves providing relevant identification documents and contact information
- Farmers transport their produce to the certified warehouse, where the warehouse operator takes possession of the commodities. The warehouse operator ensures the commodities meet the quality standards set by WRS Kenya.
The warehouse operator thoroughly inspects the deposited commodities to assess their quality and condition. They also grade the commodities to determine their market value
The warehouse operator issues a warehouse receipt to the farmer as proof of ownership and documentation of the deposited commodities. The warehouse receipt provides details such as the type, quantity, quality, and grade of the commodities