Hon. Mithika Linturi, Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development has informed Lawmakers that 500,436 farmers in 40 counties have accessed 3,302,683 bags of subsidised fertiliser.

In an appearance before the Members of the National Assembly to respond to Questions, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary, Hon. Mithika Linturi was put to task by Legislators. 

Keiyo South MP, Hon. Gideon Kimaiyo raised concerns regarding the cost of top-dressing CAN fertilizer and its distribution, prompting insightful responses from government officials.

"Explain why the cost of top-dressing CAN fertilizer prices remains relatively high despite the Government Subsidy Programme on fertilizers?" asked the Keiyo South Legislator.

Addressing the question, Agriculture CS Hon. Linturi acknowledged the relatively high cost of CAN fertilizer, which is currently retailing at Kshs. 5400 per 50kg bag, down from Kshs. 5900 the previous year. He explained that the price is influenced by factors like international FOB price, freight charges, handling, and exchange rate fluctuations. However, he noted that global prices have been decreasing.

"Only registered farmers in the e-voucher system can access subsidised fertilizers through National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) and Kenya National Trading Corporation (KNTC) selling centers," added Agriculture CS Hon. Linturi.

Lawmakers' raised concern on the distribution mechanism of the subsidised fertiliser with a farmers in their constitiuncies are unable to get to far way distribution centers. 

"Why can't the Ministry use the existing Government offices like the District Commissioner offices. They have been used to distribute relief food previously and they are accessible by citizens at the ward level, " asked Hon. Eric Karemba.

In response the Hon. Linturi assured MPs that the Government is making strides to improve access to fertilizers. Collaborating with county governments, MPs learnt that the NCPB is working to open more selling centers to facilitate the distribution of subsidy fertilizers. 

In terms of availability of subsidised fertiliser, CS Linturi reported that during the ongoing long rains season, a significant quantity of fertilizers had been accessed by farmers across 40 counties. Notably, 16,289 farmers in Elgeyo Marakwet have received fertilizers for various crops. 

"The Government currently holds a stock of 700,000 bags of fertilizer, accessible to registered farmers through the e-voucher system. Plans are underway to procure an extra 115,500 MT of assorted fertilizers to bolster existing stocks," CS Linturi added. 

As the session concluded the Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Moses Wetang'ula informed the House that the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development is expected to respond to further inquiries by Members at the next Plenary Question Time.