Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Ronoh during a past event/FILEThe government has acknowledged a fertiliser shortage in the country as it assured farmers that deliveries will be made by next week.
Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Ronoh confirmed that most National Cereals and Produce Boards (NCPB) stores, specifically in maize planting areas, were experiencing shortages.
In a statement, Ronoh assured the farmers that key measures have been put in place to restock it.
"By Monday, all NCPB depots will be fully stocked to ensure access by farmers," he stated.
He added that measures are in place to prevent future shortages, streamline distribution, and strengthen food security.
This, as he reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting farmers and strengthening food security through timely interventions.
"We appreciate farmers' patience and cooperation as we work towards a sustainable agricultural sector," he stated.
The shortage comes at a time the government has set aside Sh6.6 billion for the fertiliser subsidy programme.
President William Ruto assented to the Supplementary Appropriation Bill, 2025 early this week, which factors in the amount.
Farmers in parts of the North and South rift considered as the county's grain basket have been preparing for the planting season following the onset of the longs.
Currently, farmers purchase a 50kg bag of DAP at Sh2, 500 per bag since 2023, down from the initial Sh7,000.
This is part of President William Ruto's promise on lowering the cost of production in a bid to increase farm yields.
"Our target is to produce 61 million bags annually between this season and 2027. Long rains usually account for 80 per cent of a season’s production," Ruto said in a part address.
To ensure the success of the programme, the government enrolled farmers into a digital register and the created a database which enabled it to implement the e-voucher system through which farmers receive fertiliser for planting.
