President William Ruto has urged unregistered farmers to register and benefit from subsidized fertilizers to boost their production.
Speaking during the Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kericho Green Stadium, the President emphasized that his administration is committed to ensuring that every farmer in Kenya has access to the resources they need to thrive.
He revealed that they have rolled out a comprehensive agricultural initiative programme which includes access to fertilizers, affordable credit, and extension services.
“The distribution of 3.5 million bags of region-specific crop fertilizers in 41 counties to registered farmers, accomplished in partnership with county governments for efficient last-mile delivery, marked a historic shift in Kenya’s agricultural landscape,” he noted.
Ruto reiterated that the distribution of fertilizer was based on acreage and specific crop requirements, facilitated through a digital e-voucher platform.
Additionally, he pointed out that the results of this innovative program were already visible across the country, with over 200,000 acres brought under cultivation, surpassing the previous year’s achievements.
The President further expressed optimism about the upcoming long rain season, with an expected yield of 44 million bags, and an impressive overall projection of 61 million bags for both seasons, reflecting a remarkable increase of over 40%.
He also highlighted the Government’s support towards sunflower cultivation to reduce the national edible oil import bill, which currently stands at $1 billion (Ksh148 billion).
In regards to that, he announced the distribution of 600 metric tons of sunflower seeds to farmers in collaboration with counties in the Eastern, Western, and Nyanza regions during the short rain season.
By Viola Chepekemoi
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