Farmers in Tinderet Sub County have recorded improved agricultural productivity over the past two years following the government’s subsidized fertilizer programme, with both authorities and growers citing higher yields and reduced production costs.
The programme, introduced to cushion farmers against high fertilizer prices in the market, has lowered the cost of a 50-kilogramme bag to an average of Sh2,500 at the National Cereals and Produce Board from about Sh3,500 before then.
This has enabled more farmers to access the input and apply recommended quantities, significantly improving crop performance.
According to Tinderet Sub-County Agricultural Officer Joseph Kiprono, fertilizer uptake has increased steadily since the rollout of the subsidy.
“We have seen a notable improvement in fertilizer usage across the sub-county. Farmers are now able to apply the right amounts, and this has directly translated to better yields,” he said.
Statistics from the agriculture department indicate that maize yields in the area have increased by between 30 and 40 percent over the past two seasons.
Farmers who previously harvested an average of 12 to 15 bags per acre are now recording between 18 and 22 bags per acre, depending on rainfall patterns and farm management practices.
Beans and other food crops have also registered gains, with productivity rising by an estimated 20 to 25 percent.
Tea farmers in the area have similarly reported improved leaf quality and volumes due to consistent fertilizer application.
Alice Chepkemoi, a farmer from the Meteitei location, says the subsidy has been a turning point.
“Before the programme, I could not afford enough fertilizer for my farm. I would stretch one bag over two acres, which affected yields. Now I apply correctly, and my harvest has nearly doubled,” she said.
Another farmer, Peter Sang, noted that reduced input costs have eased financial pressure on households.
“We are spending less on production and getting more from our farms. That means better income and food security for our families,” he said.
At the national level, the agriculture sector has shown strong recovery, growing by an estimated 6 to 7 percent annually over the last two years.
Maize production rose sharply, increasing by close to 40 percent, a trend mirrored in key producing regions such as Nandi County.
Despite the gains, challenges in access and distribution remain a concern, particularly among smallholder farmers.
Local authorities acknowledge that demand for subsidized fertilizer often exceeds supply.
“We are working to improve targeting so that small-scale farmers benefit more equitably. The goal is to ensure no farmer is left behind,” said Kiprono.
Farmers in remote parts of Tinderet have also raised concerns over delayed deliveries and limited allocations.
“Sometimes the fertilizer arrives late or is not enough for everyone. Larger farmers seem to benefit more because they can access bigger quantities,” said Sang.
Agricultural experts warn that while the subsidy has boosted productivity, it may also have long-term implications on the private fertilizer market if not carefully managed.
However, they agree that the programme has played a crucial role in stabilizing food production during a period of economic strain.
“If the government continues supporting us and improves distribution, we can produce even more,” said Chepkemoi.
As the country seeks to sustain agricultural growth and cushion farmers from rising costs, the experience in Tinderet Sub County highlights the tangible benefits of the subsidized fertilizer programme, while underscoring the need for efficient implementation and inclusive access.
By Sammy Mwibanda
