President William Ruto has announced that the government’s reforms in the agriculture sector are beginning to bear fruit, with farmers across the country benefiting from improved production and better prices. Speaking during an interdenominational prayer service in Elgeyo-Marakwet County, the President highlighted key achievements in maize, coffee, sugar, and dairy farming, attributing the progress to policy changes and the elimination of exploitative cartels.
President Ruto noted that reduced fertilizer prices have significantly boosted food production, with Kenya now producing 50% more food than in 2022. He urged maize farmers to optimize fertilizer use to achieve higher yields up to 20-25 bags per acre by applying 1.5 to 2 bags of fertilizer per acre.
The coffee industry has seen major changes, with the government cracking down on cartels that previously controlled licensing, milling, and buying. Farmers are now earning Ksh110 to Ksh150 per kilo of cherry, up from Ksh50-Ksh60 in 2022. Additionally, cooperatives receive payments within five days of sale, with farmers expected to be paid within 10 days. The Nairobi Coffee Exchange has also been restructured, with the Capital Markets Authority ensuring fairness in transactions
In the sugar sector, farmers and workers are now receiving timely payments, with some even earning bonuses for the first time. President Ruto expressed confidence that Kenya will soon export sugar due to increased production. Meanwhile, reforms in the dairy sector aim to empower farmers by making them active stakeholders in milk processing. The President criticized the price disparity between fresh milk (Ksh50 per litre) and packaged milk (Ksh120), promising further adjustments to benefit producers
Beyond agriculture, President Ruto defended the Social Health Authority (SHA), urging Kenyans to disregard misinformation and reaffirming that it will outperform the previous NHIF system. He also warned against immorality and hate targeting children, while dismissing critics who doubt his administration’s progress.
President Ruto’s address underscores the government’s commitment to transforming agriculture through policy reforms, fair pricing, and timely payments. With increased production and reduced exploitation, these changes aim to secure Kenya’s food sustainability and economic growth. However, sustained efforts will be crucial to ensure long-term benefits for farmers and the economy.
