Increased awareness of fertiliser subsidy programme fuelling demand, CS Kagwe says
Many farmers are doubling their fertiliser uptake, anticipating a bumper harvest that could boost food security and reduce the country’s dependence on imports.
Agriculture and Livestock Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has described the historic demand for subsidised fertiliser as a "happier problem", highlighting the success of the government’s efforts to support agricultural productivity.
“Currently, over 180,000 bags of fertiliser are being absorbed daily upon arrival, an encouraging and happier problem to face, a challenge I welcome and I’m ready to overcome,” said Kagwe in a statement released Monday.
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“It reflects the success of the government’s initiative in supporting agricultural productivity.”
The Ministry of Agriculture attributes the overwhelming demand to increased awareness of the fertiliser subsidy programme, which has seen over 5.9 million farmers register on the Kenya Integrated Agricultural Management Information System (KIAMIS).
Additionally, many farmers are doubling their fertiliser uptake, anticipating a bumper harvest that could boost food security and reduce the country’s dependence on imports.
To address the rising demand, the government has mobilised over 200 trucks to replenish stocks at National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) depots across the country. More fertiliser shipments are also in transit via sea to ensure continuous availability.
However, the surge in demand has presented logistical challenges, with some regions experiencing delays.
Kagwe urged farmers to collect their allocations early to avoid last-minute shortages.
Meanwhile, in anticipation of increased yields, NCPB has been directed to begin preparations for drying and storing key staple crops such as maize and wheat to minimise post-harvest losses.
“The government remains committed to ensuring farmers receive the support they need. This is a challenge we are ready to tackle as we continue strengthening our agricultural sector for long-term food security and economic growth,” Kagwe said.
Kagwe also urged farmers to utilize Aflasafe, a product designed to combat aflatoxin contamination in crops like maize and groundnuts. He noted that Aflasafe is available at KALRO’s distribution and sales points.
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