A total of 250 bags of suspected counterfeit fertiliser have been seized in Kakamega County after a joint operation by government agencies targeting illegal supply networks during the planting season.
The crackdown brought together officers from the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), and the Government Chemist.
Authorities say the operation uncovered more than just fake products. Investigators also found signs that government-subsidised fertiliser may have been diverted into the black market. Some of the seized bags were marked “Not for Sale,” an indication that they were meant to reach farmers through official subsidy programmes. Instead, they are believed to have been repackaged and resold through unauthorised channels.
AFA raised concern over the timing of the incident, noting that it comes at a critical moment when farmers are actively planting. With the rains ongoing, demand for fertiliser is high, and many farmers are spending their savings to secure farm inputs. This creates an opportunity for dishonest traders to take advantage of the situation.
Tom Muteti, ACA Regional Manager for Kisumu, warned that the spread of substandard fertiliser could have serious consequences. He explained that farmers depend on quality inputs to achieve good harvests, and using fake or poor-quality fertiliser can lead to reduced yields. This not only affects individual farmers but also has a wider impact on the country’s food supply.
Experts also point out that counterfeit fertiliser can damage soil over time. Many of these products do not contain the correct nutrients needed for crops to grow well.
As a result, farmers may suffer losses, and the land itself may become less productive in the long run.
Officials further noted that such illegal activities weaken government efforts to support farmers through subsidy programmes.
When subsidised fertiliser is diverted and resold illegally, it disrupts plans meant to make farming more affordable and productive.
In response, AFA has said it will continue working closely with other agencies to monitor and stop illegal fertiliser distribution. Farmers have been urged to buy inputs only from authorised dealers and to check packaging carefully before purchase.
Authorities are also encouraging the public to report any suspicious activity. They say protecting the quality of agricultural inputs is important not just for farmers, but for the country’s overall food security.
