The government has reiterated its commitment to supporting farmers across the nation by distributing 12.5 million bags of subsidized fertilizer ahead of the anticipated long rainy season this year.
According to Agriculture and Livestock Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi, the distribution of subsidized fertilizer has commenced on schedule to coincide with the onset of the farming season in many regions of the country.
He emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “All the steps we are undertaking underscore the government’s dedication to bolstering agricultural self-sufficiency.”
I was pleased to Commission the Nyalani Irrigation project in Busa village, Kinango Sub County, Kwale County. The project is part of the National Agricultural and Rural Inclusive Growth Project (NARIGP) being implemented by the National Government. pic.twitter.com/k4HujveYhG
— Hon.Mithika Linturi, EGH (@mithika_Linturi) March 6, 2024
In a move aimed at reducing reliance on imported edible oil, Linturi announced that farmers purchasing subsidized fertilizer would also receive free certified sunflower seeds.
This strategic measure aims to promote domestic oil crop production while enhancing food production, nutrition, and food security in the country.
During the launch of the subsidized fertilizer distribution exercise at the National Cereal and Produce Board in Kwale town, CS Linturi, alongside Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani and State Department of Crop Production Principal Secretary Paul Rono, emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring a bumper harvest for local farmers during the rainy season.
Additionally, the minister inaugurated bulk mobile grain dryers, which play a crucial role in mitigating post-harvest losses and ensuring proper storage and drying of harvests.
Encouraging farmers to promptly register and redeem vouchers for subsidized fertilizers, Linturi highlighted the ministry’s focus on promoting oil crop production, particularly in Kwale.
Alongside fertilizer distribution, complimentary sunflower seeds are provided to farmers, further fostering agricultural growth.
In a separate event, the Agriculture Minister inaugurated the Kwale PAVI Milling facility in Msambweni, Kwale County.
He emphasized the facility’s role in enhancing farmers’ incomes through value addition, thereby empowering local farmers in Kwale to increase the value of their produce.
Governor Achani hailed the introduction of mobile cereal dryers, which can dry 110 bags of cereals in just two hours, as a significant boost for smallholder farmers in Kwale.
This initiative comes as welcome support, especially considering the bumper harvest experienced by farmers in the last season.
