State announces distribution of subsidised fertiliser for tea farmers ahead of short rains

Kenya tea farmers are set to receive significant support as the government rolls out subsidised tea fertiliser in preparation for the upcoming short rains.

In a statement from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development on Monday, the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) received new instructions regarding the retail fertiliser prices.

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Andrew Mwihia Karanja revealed that KTDA has imported over 86,988 metric tonnes of fertiliser, which will be distributed to farmers nationwide.

"The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development has given firm instructions to KTDA that, in line with the GOK policy on subsidised fertiliser, the tea fertiliser should be sold at Sh2,500 per 50kg bag," he said.

This subsidy initiative is part of the government's broader effort to assist small-scale tea farmers, ensuring they can benefit from the subsidy programme.

Farmers' outcry

The announcement comes in response to a recent nationwide outcry from farmers after KTDA disclosed a proposed increase in fertiliser prices.

On October 9, 2024, KTDA announced that a 50kg bag of fertiliser would cost Sh3,400, contradicting the subsidised price of Sh2,500. Farmers were distressed to learn that this fee would be deducted from their final bonus payments, scheduled for release this week.

With over 700,000 small-scale farmers relying heavily on subsidized fertiliser, the proposed price hike raised concerns about its impact on crop productivity and farmers' earnings, prompting the government to intervene.

In this latest directive, the government also indicated that it is collaborating with the National Treasury, KTDA, and other agencies to ensure that subsidy refunds owed to KTDA are realised.

If all goes as planned, Sh2 billion will be allocated to KTDA for the fertiliser subsidy programme in the Financial Year 2024-2025, according to Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Ronoh.

The PS had previously instructed KTDA to comply with the government's directive, emphasising that funds are being made available for the subsidy initiative.

Tea farming plays a crucial role in Kenya's agricultural sector, making the availability of tea fertiliser essential.

Given that fertiliser enhances tea quality and boosts overall productivity, the government recognises the need to support small-scale farmers economically while maintaining high-quality tea production.