North Rift maize farmers threaten protests over topdressing fertilizer shortage

Farmers have been camping at the National Cereals and Produce Board NCPB depot in Eldoret for weeks, expressing frustration over the unavailability of the crucial input. They accuse the government of poor planning, noting that planting fertilizers are now abundant when topdressing is needed, a reversal from when planting fertilizers were scarce. Farmers like Jane Kwambai and Stephen Korat have appealed to President William Ruto for intervention, highlighting the recurring issue of subsidized fertilizer shortages in the region.

They warn of major protests in Eldoret if the problem is not resolved. In response, NCPB North Rift regional manager Gilbert Rotich stated that 13,000 bags of topdressing fertilizer are en route and expected to arrive within two days, assuring farmers that measures are in place to prevent future shortages.