Kenya is set for a historic maize harvest of 70 million (90kg) bags in 2025, up from 67 million in 2024 and more than double the 34.3 million bags recorded in 2022. To secure national food security and stabilize markets, the Government has announced plans to restock the National Strategic Food Reserve by purchasing directly from farmers.
Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Sen. Mutahi Kagwe, said the move will not only guarantee food security for the nation but also provide farmers with a reliable market for their produce.
“Our national food security has remained stable, with improved availability and reduced prices for staple foods. By replenishing the reserves, we are ensuring that farmers benefit from their hard work while protecting Kenyans from future food shocks,” said Kagwe.
The CS highlighted that the bumper harvest has been supported by the Government’s Fertilizer Subsidy Programme, which has provided 21.3 million bags of fertilizer worth Kshs. 53.25 billion, leading to farmer savings of about Kshs. 105 billion. Fertilizer prices have dropped by up to 67% per 50kg bag, boosting the production of key commodities.
For the 2025 long rains season, 6.9 million bags of fertilizer were distributed, with a plan to scale this up to 12.5 million subsidized bags in 2026, covering all 1,450 wards.
Speaking during the official opening of the 2025 A.S.K. Central Kenya National Show at Kabiruini Showgrounds in Nyeri, Kagwe reiterated that the Government is committed to sustainable, climate-smart agriculture while ensuring farmers are cushioned through market interventions and subsidies.
“Climate smart agriculture calls for responsible stewardship of our natural resources. We encourage the planting of tree cover in steep areas to prevent soil erosion and to protect our rivers. In addition, to keep river water clean for both people and livestock and to prevent the spread of waterborne diseases, we must only use proper, approved pesticides,” he said.
He added that climate-smart agriculture also means embracing global standards. Kenya will ensure compliance with the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) within set timelines so that Kenyan produce remains competitive and sustainable in international markets.
