Murang’a Farmers Face Steep Farm Input Costs Amid Planting Season

MURANG’A – Farmers in Murang’a are grappling with soaring prices and scarcity of essential farm inputs such as seeds and fertilizers, threatening their productivity as the planting season approaches.

According to Kenya News Agency, the availability of certified seeds and fertilizers at agrovet outlets is dwindling, with those in stock being prohibitively expensive. Jeremiah Thiong’o, a maize farmer, conveyed to KNA his frustration over the steep rise in seed prices, noting a significant increase of Sh 400 for a popular maize variety, which now costs Sh 1,200, up from Sh 800.

The scarcity and high cost of these inputs have compelled Thiong’o and other farmers to consider alternative measures, such as using seeds from their previous harvests, which may result in lower yields. Another farmer, Gabriel Ndirangu, expressed concerns over the inaccessibility of subsidized fertilizer, which requires registration with the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB). Ndirangu highlighted his inability to procure the subsidized product due to his non-registration status, underscoring a broader issue that could impact many local farmers.

The situation has raised fears of potential food shortages in the county, as the high input costs may force farmers to switch to less expensive crops, thereby affecting the region’s food supply. Ndirangu speculated that a pivot towards growing beans and kale might ensue, given their lower production costs compared to maize.

Grace Ndanu, an agrovet operator in Murang’a town, has witnessed a downturn in her business due to the inflated prices. She cited a particular instance where the cost of a 50kg bag of 23/23 fertilizer escalated from Sh 3,500 in previous years to between Sh 4,500 and Sh 5,000 currently. This price hike has deterred many farmers from purchasing fertilizers, with some opting for government-subsidized options or resorting to organic manure as a more affordable alternative.

The mounting challenges faced by Murang’a farmers underscore a critical juncture for the agricultural sector in the region, with implications for food security and economic stability.