Government assures farmers of adequate planting seeds, cautions against fakes

ISAIAH NAYIKA AND SHEILA KIRUI-KNA 

The Head of Public Service and Chief of Staff, Felix Koskei, has assured farmers that the country has enough maize seeds for the upcoming planting season. The assurance comes as farmers across the country ramp up preparations for the expected long rains.

Speaking during a visit to the Kenya Seed Company stores in Kitale, Koskei confirmed that the major seed producer has enough certified seeds to meet the country’s agricultural needs, and he warned that the government has implemented strategies to prevent the distribution of fake seeds to farmers.

“Kenya Seed Company is ready to ensure that the country’s seed demand is met and that farmers receive high-quality seeds on time. The government is committed to supporting efforts to ensure food security,” he emphasized. 

According to Koskei, the company has already produced 15 million kilograms of certified maize seeds, which are ready for dispatch. He added that another 13 million kilograms are still undergoing treatment and will soon be ready.

Meanwhile, he revealed that the country has seen an increase in maize production this year, thanks to farmers adhering to good farming practices and the government’s fertilizer subsidy.

“This year the country has witnessed increased food production which can be attributed to government intervention mechanisms like fertilizer subsidy.

"For instance, we have seen production of 36 million kilograms of maize produce, eight million kilograms more than what was witnessed last year,” he stated.

As he urged farmers to diversify their agricultural activities and stop overreliance on maize, Koskei revealed Kenya Seed Company has moved ahead on that front with focus on production of wheat and pasture seeds.