Farmers in Embu have gotten a major reprieve following the arrival of the second batch of government-subsidized fertilizer at the National and Cereals Produce Board (NCPB) depot.

Three trucks carrying 4, 660 bags of NPK fertilizer arrived on Thursday and offloaded in readiness to dispatch the much needed commodity to farmers as they embark on planting following the onset of short rains.

Three weeks ago, the county received 6, 000 bags during the launch of national last mile fertilizer distribution that was presided over by Agriculture Principal Secretary (PS) Kello Harsama.

Department of Cooperatives Development Chief Officer, Millicent Wanja, said they had put in place elaborate measures to ensure the fertilizer is brought close to farmers

Speaking while receiving the consignment, the officer said they had established satellite stores across the county to facilitate delivery of the commodity at the doorsteps of farmers.

She cautioned farmers against selling the fertilizer as it was set to earn them more in terms of returns once used in the farm than the little they would get from selling to other farmers.

The officer also warned brokers who were trying to make a kill by buying the fertilizer from farmers at a lower cost and later sell it at a higher price, saying stern action will be taken against them.

She also assured farmers that the topdressing fertilizer will be available to them on time to ensure their crops achieve maximum growth and yields.

Source: Kenya News Agency