The government is set to boost food security and cut reliance on imports following a major increase in certified seed production, with authorities assuring farmers of adequate and high-quality supplies.
Kenya Seed Company Chairperson Purity Wangui Ngirici said Wednesday that the state agency had recorded a remarkable increase, producing 45 million kilogrammes of certified seeds in the first three quarters of the 2025/2026 season.
“In the 2025/2026 season, we have produced 45 million kilogrammes of seeds and we are still increasing. We are confident that we may hit 50 million kilogrammes before June,” she said.
Ngirici noted that the surge was informed by past shortages that left many farmers dissatisfied. “Farmers were complaining when supplies were low. That is why we decided to scale up production and also ensure they have access to all necessary farm inputs,” she explained.
She assured farmers that the increased output will eliminate counterfeit seeds in the market. “We want to guarantee farmers that there will be no fake seeds. All seeds distributed through Kenya Seed and Simlaw Seeds are certified and meet quality standards,” she added.
The meeting was presided over by Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, who praised the agency’s performance, terming it a major milestone in the country’s agricultural sector.
“This is a commendable effort. Increasing production to such levels shows what can be achieved with commitment and proper coordination,” Kagwe said.
He stressed the importance of synergy among agricultural institutions, noting that collaboration between agencies such as Kenya Seed Company, ADC farms and the National Cereals and Produce Board is key to efficient service delivery.
“We cannot work in isolation. These institutions must complement each other if we are to achieve food security,” he stated.
Kagwe revealed that more than seven million farmers have already been registered to benefit from government support through provision of seeds and fertilizers aimed at increasing productivity.
He further disclosed that his ministry is planning broader consultations with lawmakers to strengthen policy direction. “Soon, I will convene a meeting with Members of Parliament and Senators to develop strategies that will enhance food security and ultimately reduce, and even stop, food imports into Kenya,” he said.
The CS noted that Kenya currently spends close to Sh500 billion annually on food imports, a cost he said can be significantly reduced through improved local production.
During the meeting, state agencies under the ministry signed performance contracts, signaling renewed commitment to accountability and results.
Kagwe also challenged the media to prioritize agricultural reporting. “Journalists should give agriculture the attention it deserves. It is a critical sector that directly impacts the lives of Kenyans,” he said.
He reassured farmers that the country has sufficient seed stocks and that production will continue to rise to meet demand.
By Martin Mwangolo and Emmanuel Masha
