Kenyan Farmer in US Confronts President Ruto Over Fake Fertilizer Losses

On Wednesday, May 22, a Kenyan farmer living in the United States confronted President William Ruto over losses suffered from purchasing fake fertilizer.

The farmer, a member of the diaspora community, expressed his frustration over a substantial financial loss of Ksh250,000 (approximately $2,000) due to the purchase of counterfeit fertilizer from the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB). This incident occurred during a meeting where the president engaged with fellow Kenyans living abroad. Despite the substantial financial setback, the farmer had not received the promised compensation from the government, leaving him uncertain whether the authorities were aware of the situation or complicit in the fraudulent practices.

Undeterred, he is determined to fight for a refund and seek justice. In response to the farmer's grievance, President Ruto acknowledged the issue and assured that a compensation scheme is already in place. He revealed that registration was open for those who had purchased substandard fertilizer with approximately 7,000 farmers having already signed up. The compensation would provide equivalent fertilizer free of charge, addressing the losses incurred by affected farmers. Furthermore, the president emphasized the government's commitment to holding those responsible accountable.

He stated that top officials at the NCPB had been arrested and would face prosecution following investigations into the fraudulent practices. He proclaimed his administration's resolve to address the issue and restore integrity within the agricultural sector. In March 2024, the Kenya Bureau of Standards discovered that the National Cereals and Produce Board had been distributing substandard fertilizer to farmers. This fertilizer, which was actually diatomite, was packaged in bags branded by the government.

The Department of Agriculture directed relevant agencies to pinpoint and prosecute the individuals responsible for this corrupt practice and to provide compensation to the farmers who purchased the counterfeit fertilizer.