President William Ruto has revealed a significant decrease in the cost of fertilizer, reducing it from the current Sh3500 to Sh2500 per 50kg bag, effective as of August 1. This move aims to enhance agricultural yields and promote productivity among farmers.
During a press conference at State House Nairobi on August 2, Ruto emphasized that this price reduction is a crucial stride toward supporting the nation’s agricultural sector.
Ruto expressed optimism that the lowered cost would encourage greater adoption of fertilizer, urging farmers to consider doubling their usage to maximize production. He believes that this shift can lead to an immediate doubling of output.
In conjunction with this announcement, the President launched the second phase of the nationwide digital farmer registration initiative, underscoring the government’s commitment to improving the agricultural landscape.
To facilitate the distribution of the affordable fertilizer, the government is set to dispatch 100,000 metric tonnes of fertilizer across the country before the impending short rains season. The President urged farmers to collaborate with county governments to ensure easy access, especially through the last-mile component.
In a bid to strengthen agricultural financing, Ruto disclosed an increase in the Agriculture Finance Corporation (AFC) budget from Sh2 billion to Sh10 billion. This augmentation aims to provide farmers with affordable credit at single-digit interest rates, ultimately reducing production costs and fostering sectoral growth.
Simultaneously, the government plans to establish over 50 distribution centers at the grassroots level, complementing partnerships with county governments to ensure efficient delivery of fertilizer to farmers.
Additionally, the procurement of one hundred (100) dryers will be strategically distributed to various National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) depots, benefitting maize and cereals farmers by enhancing post-harvest handling and storage capabilities.