Kenya is on track for a record breaking maize harvest of 70 million bags in 2025, a significant increase from 67 million bags last year and more than double the 2022 output. In response, the government has announced it will purchase maize directly from farmers to replenish the National Strategic Food Reserve.
According to Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, this move is a win-win: it ensures the country’s food security and provides a stable market for farmers’ produce. “By replenishing the reserves, we are ensuring that farmers benefit from their hard work while protecting Kenyans from future food shocks,” said CS Kagwe.
The record harvest is credited to the government’s Fertilizer Subsidy Programme, which has distributed 21.3 million bags of fertilizer, saving farmers approximately Kshs. 105 billion. Fertilizer prices have dropped by up to 67%, significantly boosting the production of key crops. Looking ahead, the government plans to increase the subsidized fertilizer distribution to 12.5 million bags in 2026.
Speaking at the ASK Central Kenya National Show, CS Kagwe also emphasized the importance of sustainable, climate-smart agriculture. He urged farmers to plant trees to prevent soil erosion and to use only approved pesticides to protect water sources and ensure the quality of Kenyan produce meets international standards, particularly the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).