William Ruto Slashes Subsidised Fertiliser Prices To KSh 2,500, Expects 61m Bags Of Maize

• The government announced the commencement of the second phase of fertiliser subsidy programme aimed at distributing two million 50kg bags to farmers for the short rain season
• President William Ruto said with the launch of the second leg, farmers will now access one bag at KSh 2,500, down from KSh 3,500
• Ruto urged farmers to take advantage of the programme to increase their yields and help the government attain its target of 61 million bags by 2027

President William Ruto has announced a reduction in fertiliser prices from KSh 3,500 to KSh 2,500 per 50kg bag.

Ruto said the government is commencing the second phase of the subsidy programme, following the first leg that saw over 6 million bags subsidised at KSh 3,500.

Kenya's local maize production and demand

Speaking at the state house, Nairobi, on Wednesday, August 2, Ruto said the government expects higher uptake due to revised rates.

"On this leg, we shall begin immediately bringing down the price of fertiliser from KSh 3,500 to KSh 2,500 per 50 kg bag. Since fertiliser is the gamechanger of agricultural productivity, this should translate to higher production in the next planting season," said Ruto.

Ruto said the country expects an estimated yield of 44 million bags of maize this year, compared to 32 million produced in 2022.

The head of state reiterated solving food shortage in the country through interventions aimed at subsidising production, saying his government is on course to meet national demands.

"Our target is to produce 61 million bags annually between this season and 2027. Long rains usually account for 80% of a season’s production. From the long rain season alone, an estimated yield of 44 million bags is expected, compared to last year’s 32 million bags.

"As a result of effectively administered strategic interventions, we are definitely on course to meet national demand in full this year," said Ruto.

He said the distribution exercise is already on course to deliver 100,000 metric tonnes or two million 50kg bags of fertiliser at KSh 2,500 for the upcoming short rains season.

Ruto's plan to increase importation of subsidised fertiliser

The government also launched the second phase of the countrywide digital farmer registration exercise and set up 50 distribution centres in all 47 counties.

In July, Ruto affirmed that the government increased the budget allocation for fertiliser to import up to eight million bags in 2024, up from four million bags imported in 2023.

The president criticised the anti-government protests organised by Azimio One Kenya Coalition Party, saying they won't reduce the cost of living.

Through this plan, we will curb the rising cost of living and reduce hunger by ensuring that our farmers produce enough food. Kenyans are dedicated, and I want to assure you, in the next two months, we will have a harvest like never before," said Ruto.