Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura on Thursday, April 3, came out to address the allegations that the government was behind the distribution of the fake fertiliser to farmers.
While addressing the matter at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), Mwaura stated that an investigation had been launched to unravel those behind the manufacture and distribution of the alleged fake fertiliser.
According to Mwaura, samples tested by the Kenya Bureau of Standard (KEBS) proved that the supplies were not among those supplied under the subsidy program through the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB).
“May I explain that investigations are ongoing, over the allegations of fake fertilizer supplies to farmers to nail down those behind the scam,” the government spokesperson noted.
Mwaura stated that the type of fertilizer that had been flagged as fake was the GPC product sold commercially under an agency arrangement outside the NCPB system. He stated the GPC product was a soil conditioner and not a fertiliser.
The spokesperson further clarified that all fertilizers distributed under the Government Subsidized Program are sold in bags clearly labelled as "Government Subsidized Fertilizer" and marked "Not for Resale."
“The NCPB is a state Corporation that generates its revenue for its operations and self-sustainability, as part of its commercial mandate,” Mwaura noted.
“Farmers are assured of the Government's commitment to quality service delivery to all farmers in a transparent, ethical and professional manner through its respective Ministries.”
Mwaura's sentiments come against the backdrop of calls by a group of opposition politicians calling for the immediate resignation of the Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi.
Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka while addressing the press on March 31, alongside DAP Kenya party leader Eugene Wamalwa, the leaders urged President William Ruto to consider dismissing Linturi.
According to Kalonzo, the alleged distribution of fake fertiliser to farmers caused much pain since Kenyans were already struggling with the burden of over-taxation.
"If the government is serious about fighting corruption the Agriculture CS would have been home by now," Kalonzo stated.
