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Farmers across Kenya are up in arms after discovering pebbles and animal droppings in their fertilizer. The controversy centers around the alleged distribution of counterfeit fertilizers, and Agriculture Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mithika Linturi is at the center of the storm.
The Scandal Unveiled
In Nakuru County, a multi-agency security team seized 560 bags of suspected counterfeit fertilizer. The government has suspended the distribution of NPK fertilizer to farmers under the subsidy program. The fertilizer in question, NPK 10:26:10, was manufactured by Ken Chemicals Limited and is suspected to be substandard. Farmers, already grappling with economic challenges, now face the grim reality of compromised agricultural inputs.
CS Linturi’s Ex-wife Maryanne Kitany speaking to the media
Government’s Response
Agriculture Principal Secretary Kipronoh Ronoh swiftly ordered the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) to halt the distribution of this suspect fertilizer. In a letter dated March 20, 2024, he instructed NCPB Managing Director Joseph Kimote to conduct an investigation into the specifications of the fertilizer before considering its reintroduction under the subsidy program. The stakes are high: if the investigation confirms substandard quality, the supplier will face penalties.
Linturi’s Contradiction
Despite mounting evidence, Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi has publicly refuted claims of fake fertilizers being sold to farmers through the NCPB. He insists that the government is supplying certified and standard fertilizers via its subsidized program. However, police continue to impound hundreds of bags of fertilizer filled with different substances, leaving farmers bewildered and frustrated.
Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi during a past Parliament session
Political Fallout
The scandal has ignited a political firestorm. Joel Chacha, a K24 TV panelist, questions whether President Ruto should fire CS Linturi. Meanwhile, Hon. Marianne Kitany, MP for Aldai, asserts that the President must take decisive action to address this economic sabotag. As the controversy deepens, all eyes are on the government’s response and the fate of Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi.
Kenyan farmers deserve quality inputs to boost their livelihoods. The fertilizer scandal threatens not only their crops but also the trust they place in government programs. President Ruto faces a critical decision: will he act swiftly to restore confidence or risk further damage to the agricultural sector? The nation awaits his response.
