Kenya is set to achieve a record maize harvest of 70 million bags this year, according to Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Dr. Andrew Karanja. This significant increase in maize production, up by 20 million bags from previous averages, is attributed to favorable weather conditions and robust government support for farmers, including the provision of subsidized fertilizers.
Speaking during an inspection tour of Agricultural Development Corporation (ADC) and Kenya Seed Company (KSC) farms in Trans Nzoia, Dr. Karanja expressed optimism about the bumper harvest. “I am really happy that compared to last season where we managed between 40 and 60 million bags, this year’s crop is more promising and 70 million bags of 90 kg are expected to be harvested,” he stated. This increase signals a major stride towards food security in the country.
The Agriculture CS highlighted that the good rains and the strategic distribution of subsidized fertilizers by the government have significantly boosted maize production. The increased acreage under maize cultivation, supported by these interventions, is set to help the country meet its food demand and stabilize maize prices, which have been volatile in recent years due to fluctuating production levels.
Dr. Karanja commended the efforts of the ADC and KSC, acknowledging their pivotal roles in driving agricultural productivity. He noted that both institutions have effectively collaborated with other stakeholders to enhance maize production and seed availability in Kenya. “As the government, we will offer the necessary support to KSC and ADC to ensure they discharge their mandate in the agricultural sector,” he added.
Supporting Farmers for Sustained Productivity
The Agriculture CS underscored the importance of supporting farmers to maintain high productivity levels. He announced that the government would continue to supply subsidized fertilizer to farmers at a cost of Sh2,500 per 50 kg bag, a move aimed at reducing input costs and encouraging farmers to expand their maize acreage further. This initiative is expected to sustain the positive trend in maize production, positioning Kenya as a maize surplus nation.
Dr. Karanja praised the dedication of Kenyan farmers, acknowledging their hard work and resilience in producing food for the country. He emphasized that the projected bumper harvest is a testament to the collective efforts of farmers, government bodies, and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector. “The good production is an indicator that the country is now food secure,” he said, highlighting the broader implications of the increased maize output on national food security.
Ensuring Seed Availability for Future Planting Seasons
In addition to the expected maize harvest, the Kenya Seed Company is projected to produce 70 million kilos of seed maize in preparation for the next planting season. This will ensure that farmers across the country have access to high-quality seeds, a critical factor in achieving high yields. ADC, a major contracted seed grower, is also expected to contribute 10 million kilos of seed maize this season, according to Managing Director Wilson Tonui.
The government is keen on preventing seed shortages, which have previously affected farmers, particularly in the North Rift region. Earlier this year, the Kenya Seed Company faced a shortage of certain seed varieties, which disrupted planting schedules for many farmers. To mitigate such challenges, Dr. Karanja assured that measures are being put in place to guarantee a steady supply of seeds to farmers in all parts of the country.
During the inspection tour, Dr. Karanja was accompanied by Kenya Seed Company Chairperson Purity Ngirici, the firm’s CEO Sammy Chepsiror, and National Assembly Agriculture Committee member Ferdinand Wanyonyi. They reiterated their commitment to enhancing farmer engagement and increasing productivity of key crops through continued support and collaboration.
Looking ahead, Dr. Karanja emphasized the government’s commitment to boosting agricultural productivity and ensuring that Kenya remains food secure. “We will enhance our engagement with farmers so that we can achieve increased productivity, especially for major crops,” he concluded, signaling a proactive approach towards sustainable agricultural development in Kenya.
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