In a bid to bolster agricultural productivity and alleviate the high cost of living, President William Ruto has issued a directive to expedite the distribution of subsidized fertilizer across the country. The directive, conveyed during his visit to the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) Depot in Eldoret town on Monday, underscores the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and enhancing food security.
President Ruto emphasized the importance of decentralizing the distribution of subsidized fertilizer, citing its potential to stimulate increased uptake and subsequently boost food production. He urged farmers nationwide to take advantage of the subsidized fertilizers, highlighting their pivotal role in enhancing agricultural output and ultimately curbing the soaring cost of living.
During his impromptu visit to the Eldoret NCPB Depot in Uasin Gishu County, the President reiterated the government’s resolve to crackdown on counterfeit fertilizers. He assured Kenyans that perpetrators involved in the sale of fake fertilizers would be brought to justice, underscoring the administration’s zero-tolerance stance towards fraudulent practices.
“We are reducing the cost of farm inputs so that we can tackle hunger,” President Ruto affirmed, underscoring the significance of affordable agricultural inputs in addressing food insecurity. He warned against the proliferation of counterfeit fertilizers, emphasizing the need to safeguard farmers’ interests and uphold the integrity of agricultural products.
Furthermore, President Ruto pledged to sustain efforts aimed at lowering fertilizer prices to enhance the profitability of farming. He emphasized the government’s commitment to diversifying agricultural practices beyond maize cultivation, with a focus on expanding crop varieties to boost earnings and foster economic growth.
“It is possible for agriculture to drive our industrialization and spur our exports,” President Ruto asserted, highlighting the transformative potential of the agricultural sector in driving economic development. He underscored the importance of leveraging agriculture as a catalyst for industrialization, emphasizing its role in generating income and promoting sustainable livelihoods.
The President’s directive to fast-track the distribution of subsidized fertilizer underscores the government’s proactive stance in supporting farmers and promoting food security. By prioritizing affordable agricultural inputs and cracking down on counterfeit products, the government aims to enhance agricultural productivity, reduce food prices, and improve the overall standard of living for Kenyans.
As the administration continues to prioritize agricultural development, initiatives such as subsidized fertilizer distribution are poised to play a pivotal role in advancing the country’s agricultural agenda and fostering inclusive economic growth. With concerted efforts and sustained commitment, Kenya aims to harness the full potential of its agricultural sector to drive prosperity and improve the livelihoods of its citizens.