By SHABAN MAKOKHA
March 9, 2026| More than 10,000 small-scale farmers in Kakamega County are set to benefit from a free maize seed and fertilizer distribution program aimed at cushioning them from rising input costs while boosting food production.
The initiative, spearheaded by County Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda through the National Government Affirmative Action Fund, targets vulnerable and low-income farmers across all 60 wards. Timed to coincide with the planting rains, the program seeks to improve access to quality inputs, increase yields, and strengthen local livelihoods.
Maize is both a staple food and a primary economic activity in Kakamega. Recent efforts, including political goodwill and subsidized input programs, have seen production rise from 2.8 million 90-kg bags in 2022 to 3.5 million bags in 2025.
Speaking at the launch in Butere, Ms Muhanda reaffirmed her commitment to supporting farmers. “This program is designed to support vulnerable farmers across all 60 wards, aiming to increase maize production and address food shortages,” she said. She urged dealers to supply certified inputs, warning against a repeat of the 2024 fake fertilizer scandal that left hundreds of farmers counting losses after purchasing bags containing sand and stones.
Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations had impounded counterfeit fertilizer in Malava, with farmers in Ikolomani, Mumias, and Matungu also affected. “It is very embarrassing when farmers use their savings but end up getting conned,” Muhanda added.
To ensure quality, Muhanda said she partners with Kenya Seed Company to supply certified maize seeds, countering the distribution of fake seeds that has previously affected production. “With certified seeds, production is expected to be high, contributing to food security,” she noted.
Each farmer will receive a two-kilogram packet of certified maize seed, eight kilograms of planting fertilizer, and another eight kilograms of top dressing fertilizer.
The initiative aligns with recent findings by IITA-CGIAR, which called for better varieties and inputs for smallholder farmers, alongside sustainable land management, to achieve a maize revolution.
Muhanda also challenged the county government to emphasize quality control, promote soil testing, and introduce drought-tolerant, early-maturing seed varieties.
“This distribution is about more than just farming—it’s about restoring hope,” she said.