Nairobi: Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has hailed the national government's fertilizer subsidy programme, describing it as a transformative initiative in the agricultural sector. Speaking at Sabata in Kiminini Sub County, Natembeya emphasized that the programme is a well-considered idea that, if properly implemented, will lead to increased agricultural productivity.
According to Kenya News Agency, Natembeya noted that the programme has overcome previous distribution and availability challenges, with the government efficiently supplying the commodity to stores on time this year. He expressed gratitude to the President for introducing the subsidy programme, which has allowed many farmers to expand their agricultural activities. Previously, farmers faced delays in supply, but these initial issues appear to have been resolved, enabling timely access to fertilizer.
The subsidy programme was launched to help farmers cope with high fertilizer prices and address food security challenges. Before its introduction, a 50-kilogram bag of fertilizer cost farmers Sh7,000, but with the subsidy, the price dropped to Sh2,500. The initiative has been widely praised for its positive impact on agricultural productivity.
Meanwhile, Natembeya urged the government to regulate maize prices to ensure farmers can earn profits. Without regulation, he warned, farmers risk not receiving fair compensation for their efforts, potentially leading to losses. He also commented on the sugar sector, highlighting that while measures have been introduced, the current sugarcane price of Sh5,000 per tonne remains too low and disadvantages farmers in favor of millers. Natembeya called for price adjustments to prevent farmers from continuing to suffer financially and facing disorientation.