Fertilizer Relief on the Way as Soy MP David Kiplagat Moves to Calm Anxious Farmers

Soy Member of Parliament David Kiplagat has assured farmers that the Government has taken urgent measures to address the shortage of topdressing fertilizer that has affected several National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) stores across the North Rift region.

In a statement, the legislator acknowledged the concerns raised by farmers over the scarcity of subsidized Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN) fertilizer during the critical topdressing period, noting that the situation had caused anxiety among growers preparing to boost crop yields.

Kiplagat attributed the shortage to disruptions in the global fertilizer supply chain occasioned by the ongoing instability in the Middle East, which has affected the timely delivery of fertilizer supplies to Kenya.

"The shortage has largely been caused by challenges in the global supply chain resulting from the conflict and instability in the Middle East, which has impacted the steady supply of fertilizer into the country," said Kiplagat.

The MP, however, revealed that the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development had already taken corrective measures to mitigate the crisis and ensure farmers receive the required inputs in time.

According to information provided to his office, more than 200,000 bags of subsidized CAN fertilizer are currently being transported and distributed to NCPB depots across the North Rift region to replenish depleted stocks.

Kiplagat expressed optimism that the incoming supplies would restore normal distribution within the next few days and enable farmers to access the fertilizer needed to support crop production.

"With these supplies expected to arrive shortly, we are confident that farmers will soon be able to access the fertilizer they require. This will help sustain agricultural productivity and protect food security in our region and across the country," he said.

The lawmaker commended the Government for moving swiftly to address the challenge, saying the intervention demonstrates its commitment to supporting farmers and safeguarding the country's agricultural sector.

He further pledged to continue engaging relevant authorities to ensure the fertilizer reaches farmers without delay and that any emerging challenges are addressed promptly.

"As your representative, I will continue to closely follow up on this matter to ensure our farmers receive the fertilizer they need and that agricultural productivity remains on course," Kiplagat added.

The shortage had sparked concerns among farmers in Uasin Gishu, Nandi, and Elgeyo Marakwet counties, with many calling for urgent intervention to avert possible reductions in crop yields during the current planting season.

Agriculture remains the backbone of the North Rift economy, with thousands of households depending on maize farming and other crop production activities for their livelihoods.