Uproar as shortage of fertilizer hits farmers

Workers offload subsidized fertilizer from a truck at the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) warehouse in Nakuru on March 24, 2025. Farmers have raised concerns over inadequate supply. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

A crisis is looming in the country’s agriculture sector due to a severe shortage of government-subsidized fertilizers as the planting season begins.

Farmers fear this shortage will negatively affect yields and worsen food insecurity if not addressed promptly. Those who have managed to obtain fertilizer report encountering fake fertilizers and seeds from criminals exploiting the shortage to deceive farmers.