NAIROBI, Kenya- As the short rains approach, smallholder tea farmers in Kenya are set to receive a timely boost with the arrival of fertilizer from September 10th.
The Kenya Tea Development Agency Management Services (KTDA MS) has announced the importation of 97,000 metric tonnes of fertilizer for the 2024/2025 season, marking an increase from last year’s 88,000 metric tonnes.
This surge in fertilizer imports mirrors the expansion of smallholder tea acreage across the country.
It also highlights the growing trust in KTDA’s procurement processes, with more organizations and individuals outside the KTDA network placing orders through the agency.
The imported NPK 26:5:5 fertilizer, chemically compounded and sourced directly from Russia, is set to arrive in two shipments.
The first batch, carrying 47,400 tonnes, will dock at the Port of Mombasa on September 10th, with the remaining balance expected two weeks later.
Collins Bett, Managing Director of KTDA MS, emphasized the importance of this timely delivery, stating, “We anticipate that farmers will receive the fertilizer promptly due to our seamless logistics plan and dedicated team.”
Ensuring that farmers receive their supplies ahead of the rains is crucial for maintaining the high quality and quantity of green leaf essential for premium tea production.
KTDA’s bulk procurement strategy, executed through competitive international bidding, allows over 680,000 small-scale tea farmers to access high-quality fertilizer at competitive prices.
This approach not only ensures cost savings but also guarantees reliable supply. The fertilizer will be bagged at the port and distributed to farmers through their respective factories, streamlining the delivery process for efficient farm application.
The cost of a 50kg bag of fertilizer will be influenced by several factors, including natural gas prices, exchange rates, shipment costs, and insurance.
However, KTDA’s commitment to affordability remains strong, with the agency continuing to offer its fertilizer credit scheme.
This scheme allows farmers to pay for the fertilizer in installments, easing the financial burden and making this essential input more accessible.
Applying fertilizer at the onset of the short rains is a critical step in ensuring the sustained production of high-quality tea, a key driver of Kenya’s agricultural economy.
By securing and distributing fertilizer in a timely manner, KTDA is not only supporting farmers in achieving optimal yields but also reinforcing its role as a reliable partner in the agricultural sector.
As KTDA prepares for the upcoming season, its efforts reflect a broader commitment to empowering smallholder tea farmers across Kenya.
