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{
"id": 1544435,
"url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1544435/?format=api",
"text_counter": 68,
"type": "speech",
"speaker_name": "Sen. Methu",
"speaker_title": "",
"speaker": {
"id": 13581,
"legal_name": "Methu John Muhia",
"slug": "methu-john-muhia"
},
"content": "Mr. Speaker, Sir, this is a request for a statement on inequitable distribution of fertilizer by the National Cereals and Produce Board. Mr. Speaker, Sir, I rise pursuant to Standing Order No.53(1) to seek a statement from the Committee on Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries regarding the inequitable distribution of fertilizer in the highland regions of Kenya, as reflected in the latest report from the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) on fertilizer dispatch as of 11th March, 2025. The highland regions of Kenya, known for their high agricultural productivity, rely heavily on fertilizer to sustain food security and economic growth. However, a review of the fertilizer distribution data reveals significant disparities, with some counties receiving disproportionately large quantities while others, equally dependent on agriculture, receiving far less. Mr. Speaker, Sir, for instance, Uasin Gishu County received 413,103 bags, accounting for 20.99 per cent of the total fertilizer distribution, whereas counties such as Murang’a received 7,650 bags, Nyeri received 8,760 bags, and Kirinyaga received 280 bags, which is significantly lower allocations despite their agricultural potential. Nakuru County received 204,764 bags, nearly 10 per cent of the total allocation, while counties like Meru received 12,910 bags and Tharaka-Nithi got 5,940 bags, which are significantly less. Some agricultural counties such as Marsabit and Samburu did not receive any fertilizer allocation, raising questions about regional balance in the distribution. In the Statement, therefore, the Committee should address the following- (1) The methodology and criteria used by the Ministry of Agriculture and the National Cereals and Produce Board, NCPB, in determining the fertilizer allocations to various counties. (2) Justification for the significantly lower allocation to certain highland agricultural counties despite their critical role in national food production. (3) The Government's strategy to ensure fair and equitable distribution of fertilizer subsidies and to prevent the marginalization of key farming regions. (4) Evidence on whether farmer registration data and actual county level demand were considered in the allocation process, and clarification on any inconsistencies identified. (5) Corrective measures being implemented to address these disparities and ensure that all farmers have fair access to fertilizers. I thank you."
}