Farmers registered under the government’s intensified subsidy programme are set to gain from a substantial increase in fertiliser allocations, as part of a broader initiative to boost production and reduce reliance on imports.
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi has announced a commitment to procure 26 million bags of fertiliser for the upcoming planting seasons, aiming to elevate maize production to 80 million bags, a marked increase from the previous year’s harvest of 60 million.
Mr Linturi sressed the importance of doubling farmers’ fertiliser application to enhance yields in the country.
Last year, the government distributed at least 5.8 million bags of subsidised fertiliser nationwide, at an affordable price of Ksh2,500, which was a substantial decline in cost from the previous price of Ksh7,000 for a 50 kilo bag.
Speaking at the launch of the subsidy fertiliser and the flagging off of five maize dryers at the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) silos in Nakuru on Wednesday, Mr Linturi disclosed a reduction in the cost of maize drying services.
The previous fee of Ksh150 per 90 kg bag has been revised to Ksh70. Furthermore, he hinted at additional reductions in the coming months, with discussions ongoing to potentially lower the cost to as low as Ksh50 or even Ksh30, ensuring farmers have access to fair and affordable services.
“I will be talking to the President regarding what farmers have requested and I would like to tell you that in the next six months the cost might drop to as low as Ksh50 or even Ksh30,” he said.
Meanwhile, NCPB has reported the procurement of 70,000 50 kg bags of maize from farmers since its commencement of the purchasing programme last year.
Mr Linturi highlighted that the combined efforts of increased fertiliser allocations, maize procurement strategies, and reduced drying service charges will contribute significantly to fortifying the agricultural sector, fostering resilience and prosperity in the country’s farming community.
gandae@businessdayafrica.org