Uasin Gishu Governor, Dr. Jonathan Bii, E.G.H, has underlined the need for adequate planting fertilizer to be available to farmers even as the sowing season approaches.

Speaking on Monday during an impromptu visit to the Eldoret National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB), Dr. Bii said the Ministry of Agriculture needs to work on modalities to stock enough fertilizer.

The planting season in North Rift starts in March and runs through early April, the Governor was particular that the farmers ought to have enough quantities of the input.

Dr. Bii says the over 14,000 cereal farmers registered in Uasin Gishu County need adequate supply of fertilizer, for the country to stay food secure. Uasin Gishu County alone accounts for up to 45 per cent of North Rift’s maize production.

Dr. Bii also reiterated that his administration has provided stores for the storage of fertilizer, where farmers can easily pick from the warehouses at the Ward levels. Tuiyo, Boroted, Marathon, and Kimoning farmers’ stores are among the collection points for farmers.

“I call upon the National Government to ensure the efficient and timely supply of subsidized fertilizer for Ksh.2500, aimed at doubling farmers’ production compared to the previous year,” said Dr. Bii.

Timely distribution (of the input) will assist the farmers produce more, and in the process, the country gets enough food,” said Dr. Bii.

Accompanying the Governor was Agriculture Chief Officer, Mr Elphas Kesio, who reiterated the county’s focus on enhancing access to essential inputs.

Mr. Kesio said that Governor Bii’s efforts aim to catalyze agricultural growth and prosperity for farmers in the region.