Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi has expressed optimism that the ongoing distribution of subsidised fertiliser will improve yields.
He said his Ministry is determined to ensure all validated farmers receive the subsidised fertiliser as they prepare for the planting season.
Speaking after inspecting the ongoing distribution of the subsidised fertiliser in Narok, Bomet and Nakuru counties, Linturi appealed to farmers across the country to register with the government to enable them access the farm input.
“During my tour of the three counties, I was taken through the process of buying the subsidised fertiliser through the E-voucher system. This system rolled out by the government ensures traceability and full accountability of the distribution process,” the CS said.
Linturi added that, so far, he is pleased with the distribution process.
Subsidised fertiliser is accessed from National Cereals Produce Board depots.
The government started the fertiliser subsidy programme last year targeting 6.2 million farmers ahead of the planting season.
The programme is aimed at helping farmers access the commodity at a reduced cost of Sh3,500 per 50-kilogramme bag down from Ksh6,000.
The government subsidy fertiliser is procured through the Kenya National Trading Company (KNTC) and distributed across the country through NCPB depots.
Linturi added that the provision of subsidised fertiliser is the most workable and long-lasting way to reduce the cost of food.
“I urge farmers across the country to register themselves in the ongoing exercise so as to benefit from government subsidies,” Linturi appealed to farmers.
However, the CS issued a stern warning to those who will be found repackaging subsidised fertiliser for sale at unauthorised outlets.
He said that the government will work with investigative agencies to ensure those behind the illegal trade are brought to book.
In order to deliver subsidised fertilisers, the government embarked on a nationwide campaign to register farmers.