KALRO Warns Against Counterfeit Seeds as Cause of Poor Harvests in Kenya

NAKURU – The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) has identified the distribution of fake seeds by cartels and unscrupulous businessmen as a primary cause of poor harvests in Kenya. This issue poses a significant threat to food and nutritional security, as well as agricultural productivity in the country.

According to Kenya News Agency, KALRO Director in Charge of Food Crops and Research, the organization is addressing this problem by opening Mkulima shops across the country. These shops will provide farmers with access to certified and quality seeds directly from KALRO. The announcement was made during the opening of a Mkulima shop in Njoro Township, Nakuru County. KALRO aims to open these shops in all its 54 centers nationwide.

Dr. Macharia revealed that KALRO has developed high-yielding, drought- and disease-resistant varieties of beans, sweet potatoes, sunflowers, and cassava. This initiative is part of a strategy to encourage the cultivation of alternative crops in response to reduced maize production. The Mkulima Shops will offer a range of seeds at low prices, including green grams, sorghum, millet, cowpeas, maize, rice, wheat, Irish potatoes, soya beans, and various fruit tree seedlings.

The emphasis on using certified seeds was highlighted, as they are crucial in achieving high yields and resistance to common pests and diseases. Dr. Felister Makini, Acting Deputy Director-General Crops at KALRO, added that the organization is actively developing climate-smart seed varieties and digital technologies for real-time agricultural advice.

Nakuru County Executive Committee Member in Charge of Agriculture, Mr. Leonard Bor, stated that the county administration, led by Governor Susan Kihika, would partner with KALRO to provide quality planting materials to farmers through cooperatives. The partnership aims to address the challenges of counterfeit seeds and poor-quality farm inputs.

The problem of fake seeds is exacerbated during planting seasons, with high demand for certified seeds leading to the sale of counterfeit products. Bor advised farmers to be vigilant and only purchase seeds certified by the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (Kephis). He also emphasized the importance of soil testing and the use of certified fertilizers to ensure optimal crop production.

Kephis Managing Director Prof. Theophilus Mutui warned that dealers selling fake seeds would face severe legal penalties, including fines and imprisonment. This move by the government aims to protect farmers and the agricultural sector from the detrimental effects of counterfeit seeds.

Local farmer Mr. Vincent Chelule expressed the concerns of growers in the region regarding the availability of certified seeds. The establishment of Mkulima Shops by KALRO is seen as a critical step in addressing this gap and ensuring the supply of quality seeds to farmers.