Bungoma County, January 28, 2025 – In a bold move to enhance food security and agricultural output, Bungoma County has announced plans to supply subsidized fertilizer and seeds to over 22,000 farmers this planting season. The initiative, aimed at improving yields for maize – the region’s staple crop – is a key component of the county’s broader agricultural support program.
Hebert Kibunguchy, the County Executive Committee (CEC) member for Agriculture and Cooperatives, unveiled the plan, emphasizing that the subsidy will play a crucial role in helping local farmers tackle ongoing challenges, including unpredictable weather patterns and rising food demand.
“This initiative is vital in improving food production in Bungoma County, especially as we confront the challenges of climate change and a growing population,” Kibunguchy said. “Over 22,500 farmers will benefit from this subsidy, which will help them increase their harvests and contribute to the county’s food security goals.”
Procurement and Distribution Underway
The county government has already begun procuring the necessary fertilizers and seeds, with the aim of ensuring timely distribution before the start of the rains. This year’s expanded program follows last year’s successful initiative, which reached approximately 21,900 farmers. The increase in beneficiaries reflects the growing demand for agricultural support in the region.
Combating Counterfeit Agricultural Inputs
A major concern for the county is the circulation of counterfeit seeds and fertilizers, which threaten to derail the success of the subsidy program. Kibunguchy warned farmers to remain cautious and report any suspicious products to authorities.
“There have been reports of fake agricultural inputs being sold to unsuspecting farmers. These substandard products undermine our efforts to improve yields and could potentially derail our target of a 4-million-bag maize harvest,” Kibunguchy said.
To tackle this issue, Bungoma County is collaborating with law enforcement and agricultural authorities. In a recent operation, Bungoma South Police Commander, James Odera, announced the seizure of eight tonnes of expired fertilizer. The goods were discovered being transported illegally, and two individuals were arrested as investigations continue.
“This serves as a stern warning to anyone involved in the sale of fake agricultural inputs. We are committed to ensuring that our farmers have access to quality, reliable products,” Odera said.
Support through Extension Services and Crop Diversification
To further assist farmers, Bungoma County has deployed extension officers to all 45 wards, equipped with motorbikes to improve mobility and ensure broader access to services. These officers are providing farmers with valuable training on modern agricultural techniques, pest management, and sustainable farming practices.
Kibunguchy also urged farmers to diversify their crops as a means of mitigating the risks associated with monoculture, particularly in the face of climate change. He recommended planting drought-resistant crops such as millet, sorghum, and legumes. Additionally, the county is encouraging farmers to explore crop insurance options to protect their livelihoods against potential weather-related losses.
A New Era for Bungoma Agriculture
This expanded subsidy program and the accompanying support services represent a significant step toward boosting agricultural productivity in Bungoma County. With the combination of timely fertilizer and seed distribution, expert guidance from extension officers, and a crackdown on counterfeit products, the county is determined to empower its farmers to succeed in an increasingly uncertain agricultural environment.
As the planting season begins, farmers in Bungoma can look forward to a stronger, more resilient agricultural future – one rooted in innovation, education, and strong community partnerships.
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