NAIROBI, Kenya- Farmers across Kenya can finally breathe a sigh of relief as the government releases Sh2 billion to support its fertilizer subsidy program.
This move comes after widespread complaints over skyrocketing fertilizer costs, which had been compounded by delays in the subsidy rollout.
The Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) had recently announced a price of Sh3,400 for a 50-kilo bag of fertilizer, leaving farmers grappling with financial strain.
However, with the subsidy now in place, farmers can purchase the essential input at the government-recommended price of Sh2,500.
KTDA National Chair Enos Njeru, speaking at the Rukuriri Tea Factory’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Embu, emphasized the subsidy’s significance in supporting tea farmers.
The initiative aims to make tea farming more profitable by cushioning growers from the high costs of production.
“Farmers can now continue buying fertilizer at the subsidized price, a step that ensures farming remains sustainable,” Njeru said.
He further announced plans to refund farmers who paid above the recommended price. The refunds, expected on January 5, will accompany payments for December’s green leaf deliveries.
Njeru outlined KTDA’s plan to complete fertilizer distribution by the end of the month, after which account reconciliations will determine individual farmer refunds. This process underscores KTDA’s commitment to transparency and accountability in supporting farmers.
“We will ensure that the fertilizer suspense money is refunded to every farmer, safeguarding their welfare and maintaining trust within the sector,” he assured attendees.
In a pointed message, Njeru urged political leaders to keep partisan interests out of the tea industry, Kenya’s top foreign exchange earner.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration between policymakers and sector stakeholders to resolve challenges such as leadership disputes and dwindling farmer earnings.
“Those wishing to propose changes or improvements must engage with industry leaders who understand the sector’s dynamics. Political interference will only hinder progress,” Njeru noted.
The release of Sh2 billion for the fertilizer subsidy is a testament to the government’s commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity.
For tea farmers, this relief couldn’t have come at a better time, ensuring a profitable end to the year and setting the stage for a more stable 2025.
