Over 4 million fertiliser bags sold as planting season begins

Officials inspecting subsidized fertilizer at NCPB stores in Eldoret in February 2, 2026

Farmers have so far purchased about 4.5 million bags of subsidised fertiliser ahead of the current maize planting season.

Agriculture Principal Secretary Kiprono Rono said uptake of the fertiliser is high, with long queues reported at National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) depots as farmers collect supplies for planting.

He said the government plans to import more than 12.5 million bags for distribution across the country, adding that a significant consignment has already arrived.

"We have another ship docking in Mombasa next week, after which more fertiliser will be delivered to the depots,” Rono said.

He added that the high uptake has created space at the depots, allowing the government to bring in additional supplies.

The PS described the current uptake as the highest ever, adding that the government is prepared to meet demand from local farmers.

"We also assure farmers that the fertiliser has been certified as high quality, and we have sealed all loopholes for the distribution of fake fertiliser,” he said.

Rono said security teams are on high alert to curb the circulation of counterfeit fertiliser. He noted that suspects who allegedly attempted to distribute fake fertiliser in Eldoret two weeks ago had been arrested and taken to court.

He spoke in Uasin Gishu county, where he and Environment Principal Secretary Festus Ng’eno paid a courtesy call on Governor Jonathan Bii.

Rono also announced that Sh2 billion had been allocated to the Kenya Seed Company to help subsidise seed prices for farmers.

"We have a hitch regarding seed prices, but we are working with the company to review them by next week,” he said.

Rono added that the national and county governments would provide the necessary support to ensure a smooth planting season.

Ng'eno said the meteorological department had indicated that the long rains began earlier than usual and are expected to continue until May.

He urged farmers not to worry about the intensity of the rains or fear that they may cease prematurely.

"Our weathermen have indicated the rains will be adequate and continue until around May,” Ng’eno said.

Rono reiterated that the government would work closely with counties to ensure farmers have adequate farm inputs to support the planting season.