The Kenyan government has moved to address the ongoing fertiliser shortage, assuring farmers that all National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) depots will be fully restocked by Monday. Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Ronoh confirmed the shortages, particularly in maize-growing regions, but emphasized that measures are in place to ensure timely delivery and prevent future disruptions.
In a statement, PS Ronoh acknowledged the challenges faced by farmers and expressed gratitude for their patience and cooperation. “By Monday, all NCPB depots will be fully stocked to ensure access by farmers,” he said. He also highlighted the government’s commitment to streamlining distribution, strengthening food security, and supporting farmers through timely interventions.
The fertiliser shortage comes at a critical time as farmers in the North and South Rift regions Kenya’s grain basket prepare for the planting season following the onset of long rains. The government has allocated Sh6.6 billion to the fertiliser subsidy programme, a move aimed at reducing production costs and boosting agricultural productivity. President William Ruto recently signed the Supplementary Appropriation Bill, 2025, which includes this allocation, reaffirming his administration’s focus on lowering the cost of farming inputs.
Since 2023, the price of a 50kg bag of Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) fertiliser has been reduced from Sh7,000 to Sh2,500, making it more accessible to farmers. This reduction is part of President Ruto’s broader plan to increase farm yields and achieve an annual production target of 61 million bags of maize by 2027. “Long rains usually account for 80 per cent of a season’s production,” Ruto noted, underscoring the importance of timely fertiliser distribution.
To enhance efficiency, the government has enrolled farmers in a digital register and implemented an e-voucher system, enabling them to access subsidised fertiliser seamlessly. This digital approach aims to eliminate inefficiencies and ensure that resources reach the intended beneficiaries.
As the government works towards a sustainable agricultural sector, the timely restocking of fertiliser is a crucial step in supporting farmers and securing Kenya’s food supply. With the planting season underway, farmers remain hopeful that these interventions will translate into a bountiful harvest and a stronger agricultural economy.
