The government has urged Governors to support the distribution of subsidized fertilizer to farmers by establishing satellite stores for easier access. Kello Harsama, the Agriculture Principal Secretary, emphasized the government’s commitment to delivering fertilizer to all farmers, especially those in remote areas.
This initiative aims to provide farmers with convenient access to fertilizer, bypassing the need to travel to distant National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) depots located in major towns. The launch of this effort included the distribution of 6,000 bags of fertilizer to farmers in Embu County. Additionally, a farmer registration drive was initiated through the Kenya Integrated Agricultural Management Information System (KIAMIS) to ensure comprehensive farmer data collection and facilitate future distribution of subsidized inputs like seeds and pesticides.
Harsama reassured farmers that an ample supply of fertilizer is available for the upcoming short rains planting season, covering various crops such as coffee, tea, rice, and maize. Governor Cecily Mbarire added that satellite stores have already been established in all sub-counties to ensure farmers can access fertilizer easily. She also cautioned farmers against selling fertilizer, emphasizing its greater value when used for crop cultivation rather than selling it to fellow farmers