Posted on September, 2, 2024 at 08:30 am
The National Government has formed a multi-agency committee which will help unravel cartels behind distribution of fake seeds in the country.
Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Dr. Andrew Karanja has revealed that the committee formed comprises of national government administrators, security personnel and representatives from other government agencies.
Dr. Karanja reiterated the government will not rest until those behind circulation of fake seeds are revealed, arrested and brought to book.
The CS was speaking at Elgon Downs Farm in Trans Nzoia during Kenya Seed Company Annual Research Field Day, where he emphasized government’s commitment to ensure that fake seeds are cleared off the market, explaining that production of certified quality seeds will greatly help the country realize food security objectives.
Adding that circulation of fake seeds on the market has in the past hampered farmers to realize their full potential and brought about poor yields, Dr. Karanja said time to bring the game to an end has come.
In an effort to restore hopes of farmers, the CS assured the country has this year produced enough certified seeds for planting revealing that close to 90 million kilograms are available in the stores.
“We not only have enough maize seeds in our Kenya Seed Company stores, but as well we have enough seeds for other crops,” he added.
Hailing good working relationship between Kenya Seed Company and Agriculture Development Cooperation, Dr. Karanja said it should be guarded zealously if challenges of food security were to be amicably resolved.
“Food security is an important component just like internal security. It is for this reason the government has given priority to farming where we are encouraging all our agencies to copy the example set by ADC and Kenya Seed Company,” he said.
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Caption: Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Dr. Andrew Karanja addressing the Press in Trans Nzoia County during Kenya Seed Annual Research Field Day
Source: Kenya News Agency