Farmers in Uasin Gishu are now demanding loan relief following the High Court ruling that found the fake fertilizer sold through NCPB in 2024 violated their rights.
Kenya Farmers Association (KFA) Uasin Gishu branch director Kipkorir Menjo said the ruling vindicates farmers who suffered losses.
“The recent High Court ruling that the fake fertilizer sold to farmers through NCPB in 2024 violated the farmers rights, is a welcome move,” Menjo said.
He proposed that the government offers blanket financial relief since tracing all victims is difficult.
The relief, Menjo said, will allow farmers time to recover from the current crip failure caused by prolonged drought.
“Since it is difficult to name all the farmers affected, the best option is to assist all the farmers with AFC loans or other financial institutions with interest waivers and penalties. This will allow the farmers to have some time to recover from the current crop failure,” he said.
Menjo also called for reforms in fertilizer distribution, saying devolution requires stronger cooperatives.
He said the government should ensure easy access to subsided fertiliser for smallholder farmers.
“Since agriculture is devolved, the last mile distribution of fertilizer requires strong and well managed cooperatives to safeguard the interests of the smallholder farmers,” he added.
He noted that agriculture remains the backbone of the economy and needs sustainable subsidies and improved marketing.
2024 fake fertilizer scandal
The fake fertilizer scandal came to light in early 2024 after farmers across the North Rift and other regions complained of poor germination and stunted growth.
Tests later revealed that bags sold under the government-subsidized fertilizer program did not meet Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) requirements, containing substances such as diatomite.
The scandal led to the suspension of KEBS officials and NCPB staff, and triggered a parliamentary probe, with farmers demanding compensation for crop losses.
Former Meru Senator Mithika Linturi was af the time the Agriculture Cabinet Secretary.
