DETERMINATION OF AFLATOXIN LEVELS IN MAIZE SAMPLES IMPORTED FROM NEIGHBORING COUNTRIES UGANDA AND KENYA

Aflatoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus that pose severe health and economic threats. This study investigated aflatoxin contamination in maize samples imported into South Sudan from Kenya and Uganda. A total of 23 maize samples were collected and analyzed at the South Sudan National Bureau of Standards (SSNBS) for the year 2024. Results revealed aflatoxin presence in 91% of samples, with concentrations ranging from 0.01 ppb to 42 ppb. Uganda recorded the highest contamination, with one sample exceeding international safety limits (42 ppb). South Sudan and Kenya samples remained within permissible limits set by FDA, WHO, and the East African Standards (EAS). These findings highlight the urgent need for strict border inspections, farmer education, and regional harmonization of food safety measures to minimize aflatoxin exposure.