Mombasa: The government has disbursed 3 million bags of fertilizer to reach 7 million farmers across the country as they begin tilling ahead of the long rains beginning in March. Principal Secretary (PS) for Agriculture Dr Kipronoh Rono, while flagging off the consignment dubbed the 2026 Long Rains National Fertiliser Subsidy Programme (NFSP) at the Port of Mombasa, stated that the government intends to distribute 12.3 million bags throughout the year.

According to Kenya News Agency, Dr Rono emphasized that the fertilizer subsidy, a key agriculture pillar for the government, has capped the price at Sh2,500 per bag. This initiative aims to ensure affordability for all farmers, from subsistence to large-scale, thereby increasing yields for homes and the country at large. The PS highlighted the government's substantial investment in fertilizer acquisition and subsidy, totaling Sh40 billion since 2022.

Dr Rono mentioned that significant investments and policies have been made, including aligning seed-producing companies and the National Cereals and Produce Board, to ease the burden of production on farmers. He assured farmers of the uncompromised quality of the fertilizer, with key agencies, including the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), certifying the product before it reaches the farms.

Dr Rono also noted that this batch of fertilizer is tailored to be region, crop, and soil specific, with quality standards set to ensure maximum value for both the farmers and the end consumers. He expressed expectations of bumper harvests as the year progresses due to the fertilizer's high standard and suitability for different weather, soil, and crops.

Additionally, the State Department will collaborate with county governments in each region to facilitate the distribution of the fertilizer to interior and remote farms traditionally left out due to logistical challenges. Dr Rono emphasized the collaboration between county governments, the national government, and the National Cereals and Produce Board to establish strategic collection points where farmers from interior and rural areas can access the fertilizer.