Government Issues Stern Warning Against Sabotage of Fertiliser Subsidy Programme

Kenyan government has issued a strong warning to individuals and traders attempting to sabotage the national fertiliser subsidy programme, calling such actions “economic treason” that threatens food security and exploits hardworking farmers. 

The warning comes amid reports that some subsidised fertiliser has been diverted or sold illegally, denying farmers access to affordable farm inputs.

On March 13, 2026, the Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe spoke firmly on the matter, emphasising that the programme is intended to reduce farm input costs, improve productivity, and ensure food and nutrition security nationwide. 

In a statement shared on X, Kagwe said, “Let this be clear: This is an act of economic treason, and anyone sabotaging this programme, we are coming for you.”

The fertiliser subsidy programme provides farmers with affordable fertilisers to boost crop yields and reduce the cost of farming.

Officials say it is crucial for ensuring that small-scale farmers, who form the backbone of Kenya’s agricultural sector, can access inputs at reasonable prices.

Any diversion of these supplies, the government argues, undermines the programme’s objectives and threatens national food production.

Reports indicate that some unscrupulous traders have been hoarding subsidised fertiliser to sell at inflated prices, a practice that deprives genuine farmers of the support meant to increase productivity.

Such actions have sparked outrage among farming communities, who rely on the programme to manage costs and sustain their livelihoods.

The government has vowed to take strong legal action against anyone found tampering with the programme.

This includes freezing accounts, prosecuting offenders, and blacklisting traders involved in illegal activities.

CS Kagwe stressed that authorities will intensify monitoring and enforcement to ensure compliance, particularly in regions where diversion has been reported.

Agricultural experts have welcomed the government’s warning, noting that the fertiliser subsidy programme is critical for Kenya’s food security.

They argue that any disruptions can lead to reduced harvests, higher food prices, and greater economic strain on rural households.

By cracking down on sabotage, the government aims to protect farmers’ interests and maintain stable food production levels.

CS Kagwe also called on the public to report any illegal activity related to the programme.

He urged farmers, community leaders, and civil society groups to work with authorities to safeguard subsidised inputs.

“The success of this programme depends on transparency and accountability. Every citizen has a role to play in protecting it,” he said.