The Kenyan Government has committed KSh18 billion towards the 2026/2027 National Fertiliser Subsidy Programme in a renewed push to boost food production and strengthen the country’s food and nutrition security.
The programme is expected to benefit approximately 1.26 million farmers across the country by improving access to affordable farm inputs and supporting agricultural productivity.
The announcement was made during the 2026 World Food Day national celebrations held on Thursday at the Tandare Integrated Agriculture Demonstration Centre in Laikipia County, under the theme “Innovate Today. Nourish Tomorrow.”
Speaking during the event, Agriculture Principal Secretary James Wanjohi, who represented Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming food systems, increasing domestic food production and ensuring Kenyans have access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food.
Wanjohi said the latest allocation builds on the government’s fertiliser subsidy programme, which has seen more than 38 million bags subsidised since 2022.
He noted that the intervention had significantly reduced fertiliser prices from approximately KSh7,500 to KSh2,000 per bag, easing the cost of production for farmers.
The government has also introduced a 50 per cent subsidy on certified maize seeds, bringing the price down from KSh300 to KSh150 per kilogramme to encourage farmers to increase planting and cushion them against rising agricultural costs.
Beyond fertiliser and seed subsidies, Wanjohi highlighted other interventions aimed at strengthening the country’s agricultural sector, including expanded irrigation, agricultural research, digital innovation, improved livestock breeds, stronger markets and climate-resilient farming practices.
On livestock development, he cited the ongoing nationwide vaccination campaign targeting 22 million cattle, 23 million sheep and 35 million goats, aimed at protecting animal health, improving productivity and safeguarding pastoral livelihoods.
The Principal Secretary also emphasised the importance of collaboration between the National Government and county administrations in implementing agricultural programmes, commending the partnership with the Laikipia County Government.
The celebrations were attended by Laikipia Governor Joshua Irungu, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Representative Farayi Zimudzi, International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) Country Director Matteo Marchisio, farmers and other development partners.
During the event, Wanjohi also presided over the recognition and awarding of outstanding farmers in various categories for their contribution to agricultural productivity and food security.
