KENYA – The government of Kenya has issued an update confirming that the subsidized fertilizer available at National Cereal and Produce Board (NCPB) depots has passed rigorous testing and is deemed safe for agricultural use.
The statement follows an outcry from the public concerning fake fertilizer that prompted the national quality agency KEBS to seize 5,840 bags of substandard fertilizer from the NCPB stores across the country.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Agriculture on Friday April 5, farmers nationwide were assured that all fertilizers currently stocked at NCPB depots meet required quality standards.
However, the government said certain fertilizers, manufactured and distributed by Ms KEL Chemicals were tested by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and found not to have met meet all the required test parameters.
The government, therefore, said following the KEBS results, it has now seized and impounded fertilizer stocks distributed by KEL Chemicals at the National Cereals Produce Board (NCPB) facilities as well as announced the immediate suspension of KEL Chemicals’ operations.
“Following release of test results by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), the government has taken decisive action to safeguard the agricultural sector and farmers by announcing the immediate suspension of KEL Chemicals’ operations and seizure of its fertilizer products,” read the statement.
The affected consignment was distributed by KEL Chemical fertilizers between 5th and 10th March 2024.
Farmers are cautioned against purchasing or using any fertiliser from KEL Chemicals labeled as Kelphos Plus, Kelphos Gold, and NPK 10:26:10, as these products have not met the standards set by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS).
“The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development strongly advises farmers who have acquired or possess fertilizer from KEL Chemicals to immediately discontinue its use and to visit their nearest NCPB facility for further guidance,” highlighted the statement.
The statement explained that in line with ensuring public safety and maintaining quality standards, KEBS has initiated legal action as per the Standards Act Cap 496 against KEL Chemicals for distributing substandard products.
“This measure underscores the government’s commitment to upholding stringent product quality and safety standards, ensuring accountability and safeguarding the agricultural sector and the wider public,” read the statement.
It further stated that the government remains committed to enforcing strict compliance with safety and quality standards for all fertilizers being availed to farmers among other products.
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