Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has called on the national government to enhance its support for farmers by providing free fertilizers, ensuring food security in the country. Speaking during the second day of the free seed distribution under the Mbegu Innovative Program in Saboti Sub-County, the governor stressed that farmers’ efforts must be reciprocated by government policies that prioritize affordable farm inputs and fair pricing for produce.
Addressing farmers in Gitwamba, Muroki, and Machewa, Governor Natembeya urged the national government to supplement the county’s initiative by providing fertilizers at no cost.
“As I am giving out free seeds, the national government should be supporting the farmers with free fertilizer,” he stated.
He further raised concerns over the unfair competition faced by local farmers due to the importation of farm produce from neighboring countries, which disrupts the market and discourages local agricultural investment.
🚀 Mbegu Program: Transforming Agriculture in Trans Nzoia
Since its launch last year, the Mbegu Initiative has yielded positive results, with farmers reporting a significant increase in maize yields. Governor Natembeya believes that with additional support, farmers in Trans Nzoia can produce surplus food for the entire nation.
Trans Nzoia County CEC for Agriculture, Phanice Naliaka Khatundi, revealed that the department has set aside Ksh 100 million for the Mbegu program, aiming to distribute free seeds to over 200,000 vulnerable and small-scale farmers.
Khatundi highlighted that despite the high cost of fertilizers, the initiative has greatly benefited small-scale farmers, boosting maize production. She cautioned beneficiaries against selling the donated seeds and urged them to plant during the upcoming long rains for sustainable food production.
“This year, the County Government has partnered with Kenya Seed Company in the free seed distribution. By planting Kenya Seed’s Hybrid maize varieties—H6213, H513, and H516—farmers can harvest up to 54 bags of 90kg maize per acre,” she stated.
📢 Challenges in Devolution and Governance
Governor Natembeya also weighed in on national governance and devolution, criticizing the government’s delayed disbursement of funds to counties. He cited challenges in the health sector, noting that delayed funds from hospital insurance schemes, including the defunct NHIF and SHA, have derailed service delivery.
“Recently, the national government devolved KERRA roads to county governments but continued withholding the funds. What was the essence of devolving it in the first place if they don’t want to release the money?” Natembeya questioned.
On national politics, he commented on the working relationship between President Dr. William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga, stating that unity should not come at the expense of constitutional democracy.
“A country without an opposition is not safe,” he emphasized, urging leaders to uphold the rule of law and respect the roles of both government and opposition.
🗣️ Leaders & Officials in Attendance
The seed distribution event saw the participation of several county and national government officials, including:
🔹 Deputy Speaker of Trans Nzoia County Assembly, Obed Mwale Mahanga
🔹 Saboti Ward Representative, Bonface Cheloti
🔹 Machewa Ward Representative, Kisiang’ani Wambwa
🔹 Chief Officers Sammy Sichangi (Governance), Joseph Wasike (Roads), and Patrick Osoro (Agriculture)
🔹 Dr. Emmanuel Wanjala (Agriculture Department)
Governor Natembeya’s strong advocacy for farmers, coupled with the county’s strategic agricultural programs, is expected to significantly boost food production in Trans Nzoia. However, the call for national government support remains critical to ensuring long-term food security and sustainability in Kenya.
