Fertiliser Stocks Ready for Farmers in West Pokot as Long Rains Approach

Farmers in West Pokot can now prepare for the planting season with confidence following confirmation of sufficient fertiliser stocks at the National Cereals and Produce Board Kapenguria Depot. The depot has received substantial supplies ahead of the anticipated onset of the long rains, ensuring that farmers can access subsidised fertiliser without delay.

Fertiliser Stocks Ready for Farmers in West Pokot as Long Rains Approach

Kapenguria Depot Station Manager David Mining confirmed that the facility is fully prepared for the season, with deliveries arriving on time in line with government plans to boost food production across the country.

“We are glad to inform farmers that we have enough fertiliser and we received it on time,” Mining said.

Current Fertiliser Stocks at Kapenguria Depot

As of February 19, 2026, the depot has received a total of 25,580 bags of planting fertiliser. In addition, 13,755 bags of calcium ammonium nitrate top-dressing fertiliser have already been delivered and are ready for collection.

According to Mining, the depot is on track with its distribution plan. Before the season concludes, the facility expects to receive up to 80,000 bags of planting fertiliser and approximately 50,000 more bags of top-dressing fertiliser. These fertiliser stocks are projected to be sufficient to cater for all registered farmers in the region.

Government Subsidy Makes Fertiliser Affordable

The fertiliser is retailing at the government-subsidised price of KSh 2,500 per 50kg bag. This price applies uniformly to both planting and top-dressing fertiliser, providing significant relief to farmers who would otherwise face much higher costs in the open market.

The subsidised fertiliser programme is being implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives under a Presidential directive aimed at increasing food production across all counties. This initiative forms part of broader efforts to enhance national food security and cushion farmers against high input costs that often limit productivity.

How Farmers Can Access the Subsidy

To benefit from the subsidised fertiliser stocks, farmers must be registered on the Kenya Integrated Agricultural Management Information System (KIAMIS) platform. Registration is free of charge and can be completed at the nearest county, subcounty, or ward Agricultural Office.

Only duly registered farmers whose details appear in the official register submitted to NCPB qualify for the subsidised fertiliser. Once verified, eligible farmers receive an SMS containing an e-voucher code, which allows them to purchase the fertiliser at NCPB depots or designated Kenya National Trading Corporation centres.

Mining urged farmers to complete their registration and collect their allocations early to avoid last-minute congestion during the peak planting period.

“We encourage farmers to come early enough so that we avoid the rush towards the main planting season. This time, we assure them there will be enough stocks,” he emphasised.

Increasing Farmer Turnout Observed

Compared to previous years, the depot has recorded a steady increase in farmer turnout. Mining noted that 2025 saw a significant rise in the number of farmers served compared to 2024, and this year’s figures already surpass those recorded at the same period last year.

“There are more farmers coming early this year. It could be that farmers want to prepare in advance, or that the climatic season may start earlier. We have also stocked fertiliser early enough to meet this demand,” he observed.

This early turnout suggests growing awareness among farmers about the importance of timely access to inputs and confidence in the subsidy programme’s reliability.

Why Timely Access Matters

Access to adequate fertiliser stocks at the right time is critical for maximizing crop yields. Fertiliser application at planting provides essential nutrients that support early crop establishment and vigorous growth. Top-dressing at the appropriate growth stage ensures continued nutrient supply during periods of peak demand.

Delays in accessing fertiliser can lead to suboptimal application timing, reducing the effectiveness of the input and ultimately lowering harvests. By ensuring sufficient stocks are available well before the rains begin, the government aims to eliminate this constraint and enable farmers to follow recommended agronomic practices.

Preparing for the Long Rains

With the long rains expected soon, farmers across West Pokot are being encouraged to take advantage of the available fertiliser stocks and complete their planting preparations promptly. Early preparation allows farmers to plant at the optimal time once rains commence, maximizing the growing season and improving yield potential.

Farmers who have not yet registered on KIAMIS should visit their nearest Agricultural Office without delay. Registration is a simple process that opens access not only to subsidised fertiliser but also to other government support programmes and services.

Broader Food Security Goals

The sufficient fertiliser stocks at Kapenguria Depot reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening national food security. By ensuring that farmers across all counties can access affordable inputs, the subsidy programme aims to boost production of staple crops and reduce dependence on food imports.

West Pokot, like many other counties, has significant agricultural potential that remains underutilized due to various constraints. Reliable access to subsidised fertiliser addresses one key barrier, enabling farmers to invest confidently in crop production and improve their livelihoods.

What Farmers Should Do Now

Farmers in West Pokot are advised to take the following steps to secure their fertiliser:

  • Confirm their registration status on the KIAMIS platform
  • Visit the nearest Agricultural Office if registration is incomplete or pending
  • Await the SMS containing the e-voucher code
  • Proceed to Kapenguria Depot or designated KNTC centres to collect fertiliser
  • Plan planting activities around the expected onset of long rains

Early action will help farmers avoid queues and ensure they have inputs ready when the rains arrive.

Support Available for Farmers

For further assistance, farmers can visit the nearest county Agricultural Office, where officers are available to help with registration, answer questions about the subsidy programme, and provide guidance on fertiliser application and crop management.

The Ministry of Agriculture, through its network of extension officers, remains committed to supporting farmers throughout the planting season and beyond.

https://farmerstrend.co.ke/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Fr_LH0KWIAUjYLO-1024x683.jpghttps://farmerstrend.co.ke/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Fr_LH0KWIAUjYLO-150x150.jpgFarmersTrendFarming NewsFertiliser Stocks Ready for Farmers in West Pokot as Long Rains Approach Farmers in West Pokot can now prepare for the planting season with confidence following confirmation of sufficient fertiliser stocks at the National Cereals and Produce Board Kapenguria Depot. The depot has received substantial supplies ahead of the anticipated onset of...New Generation Culture in Agriculture