The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development acknowledges and appreciates the overwhelming enthusiasm demonstrated by farmers in accessing subsidized fertilizer through the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) stores and registered last-mile outlets across the country.
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mutahi Kagwe reacting to the surge in demand said that the over 180,000 bags of fertilizer being absorbed daily upon arrival is an encouraging and happy problem to face.
“This is a challenge I welcome and are ready to overcome,” said the CS.
In a statement to newsrooms, Kagwe said that this reflects the success of the government’s initiative in supporting agricultural productivity.
“This spike in demand has been driven by increased awareness of the fertilizer subsidy program, with over 5.9 million crop farmers now registered on the Kenya Integrated Agricultural Management Information System (KIAMIS), a significant increase compared to the last planting season,” said Kagwe.
According to the CS, many farmers who previously benefited from the program are now doubling their uptake, signaling a historic bumper harvest that will not only boost food security but also reduce the country’s dependence on imports.
To address the rising demand, Kagwe said that the government has mobilized over 200 trucks currently to various NCPB stores to replenish supplies. Furthermore, additional tonnes of fertilizer are in transit via sea to ensure continued availability.
He said that he has directed the NCPB to immediately begin preparations for the drying and storage of key staple crops, particularly maize and wheat, in preparation for the expected increase in yields in order to minimize post-harvest losses.
Kagwe encouraged farmers to take advantage of Aflasafe, a product used to control aflatoxin contamination in crops such as maize and groundnut. This product can be accessed through the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO’s) distribution and sales points.
“We will continue working closely with all stakeholders to sustain these gains and enhance resilience in the sector,” the CS affirmed.
He said that as the need for improved food security and increased agricultural production continues to be a pressing need for the country, the Ministry of Agriculture remains committed to supporting farmers and ensuring a thriving agricultural sector that contributes to the national food security and economic growth.
By Jesee Otieno
