NCPB agricultural depot. Photo | courtesy.
The government has acknowledged the ongoing fertilizer shortages in the country and assured farmers that deliveries will be completed by next week.
Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Ronoh confirmed that several National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) stores, particularly in maize-growing regions, are experiencing shortages. However, he assured farmers that measures have been implemented to replenish stocks.
“By Monday, all NCPB depots will be fully stocked to ensure farmers have access to fertilizer,” Ronoh stated.
He further noted that steps are being taken to prevent future shortages, improve distribution systems and enhance food security.
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Reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting farmers, he emphasized the importance of timely interventions in strengthening the agricultural sector.
“We appreciate farmers’ patience and cooperation as we work towards a sustainable agricultural sector,” he added.
The shortage comes as the government allocates Sh6.6 billion to the fertilizer subsidy program.
Earlier this week, President William Ruto signed the Supplementary Appropriation Bill, 2025, which includes funding for the initiative.
Farmers in the North and South Rift, key regions in the country’s grain production, have been preparing for the planting season following the onset of the long rains.
Since 2023, farmers have been purchasing a 50kg bag of DAP fertilizer at Sh2,500, a significant reduction from the previous price of Sh7,000. This aligns with President Ruto’s commitment to lowering production costs and increasing farm yields.
“Our target is to produce 61 million bags annually between this season and 2027. Long rains typically account for 80 percent of a season’s production,” Ruto stated.
To support the program’s success, the government registered farmers in a digital database, enabling the implementation of an e-voucher system through which they receive fertilizer for planting.
The registration of farmers is meant to improve agricultural productivity, enable better planning and service delivery, and support sustainable, modern farming practices, ultimately aiming for food security and surplus production
