Farmers in Nakuru braved the scorching sun to queue up at the National Cereals and Produce Board offices to secure the subsidized fertilizers in readiness for the planting season expected to kick off early next month.
A spot check by this writer at the National Cereals Board officers in industrial area revealed tens of farmers lining up to access the cash office and stores to purchase the fertilizers, after the government announced to farmers early this week.
Farmers in the larger Nakuru Sub-county and beyond, who spoke to our writer said that they were trying to secure the subsidized prices fertilizers in time before stocks get finished.
Others said they feared falling victim to fake fertilizers dealers once the government driven stocks get finished.
“The rains have just started and I have to start preparing to plant. We have been warned against people selling fake fertilizers so I have to take advantage of this offer,” said Vincent Chege, who grows maize and beans on a large scale in Njoro.
A senior Sales officer, John Mwaniki, noted that the NCPB was registering a high turnout of farmers since early last week when signs of rainfall were registered in the region.
He however assured farmers that the board would ensure that there was enough fertilizer to supply to farmers in the region.
“We have served over one thousand farmers and sold about 200tones of fertilizer yet the demand is overwhelming. However we have enough fertilizer in store. We will also order for more,’’ said Mwaniki.