RUTO CUTS FERTILISER PRICE TO KSH 2,000 AS MAIZE SEED COSTS DROP

BY GRACE KYALO

President William Ruto has announced a further reduction in the price of subsidised fertiliser and maize seeds in a move aimed at easing farming costs and supporting food production in Kenya.

Under the new measures, a 50-kilogramme bag of subsidised fertiliser will retail at KSh 2,000, down from KSh 2,500. The price of certified maize seeds has also been reduced by 50 per cent under a government subsidy programme.

Speaking during a church service in Likuyani, Kakamega County, on Sunday, October 11, Ruto said the measures were intended to help farmers affected by drought and encourage increased food production.

The President said a two-kilogramme packet of maize seeds would cost KSh 150 from November, while the government would support farmers through subsidies to lower the cost of agricultural inputs.

The latest announcement follows earlier government measures to reduce the cost of farm inputs and improve access to affordable seeds and fertiliser.

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has previously said the government would meet part of the cost of certified maize seeds, with distribution taking place through designated government channels.

The reductions come amid concerns about drought-related crop losses and the country’s food supply. The government says lowering production costs will help farmers return to their farms, increase yields and strengthen food security.

Farmers are expected to benefit from the lower prices as they prepare for the coming planting season. However, access to subsidised inputs will depend on the government’s distribution arrangements.