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Kenyan Fertilizer Plant Aims to Address National Fertilizer Deficit

The fertilizer deficit in Kenya has been a longstanding challenge for the country’s farmers, many of whom struggle to afford the high cost of imported fertilizers.

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Bags of fertilizer at Fertiplant

Fertiplant, a Kenyan fertilizer plant based in Nakuru, is working to address the country’s fertilizer deficit ahead of the planting season. The Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium (NPK) granulation company boasts an annual production capacity of 100,000 tonnes, a significant contribution to the country’s agricultural sector.

According to Kenya’s Ministry of Agriculture, the country requires an estimated 600,000 tonnes of fertilizer annually, but local production can only meet approximately 20% of that demand. The rest must be imported, leading to high prices and limited access for many farmers.

Fertiplant aims to change this by producing high-quality fertilizers that are accessible and affordable for local farmers. The plant’s granules are made from a combination of locally-sourced raw materials and imported components, ensuring that they are tailored to meet the specific needs of Kenyan crops.

The company’s efforts have been recognized by the government, with President William Ruto, visiting the plant to officially open it and oversee its operations. The President praised Fertiplant for its contributions to the agricultural sector, highlighting the important role of local production in addressing the country’s fertilizer deficit.

“We are proud of what Fertiplant is doing to support our farmers,” said Ruto. “Their production of high-quality fertilizers is a testament to the potential of our local agricultural industry. By supporting local production, we can reduce our reliance on imports and ensure that our farmers have access to the resources they need to succeed.”

The fertilizer deficit in Kenya has been a longstanding challenge for the country’s farmers, many of whom struggle to afford the high cost of imported fertilizers. Fertiplant’s efforts to address this deficit by producing high-quality fertilizers locally have been met with enthusiasm by farmers in the region.

“Having a local fertilizer plant is a game-changer for us,” said John Kipkoech, a farmer based in Nakuru. “We have struggled for years with high prices and limited access to fertilizers, but now we have a reliable source of high-quality products right here in our community. This will make a huge difference for our crops and our livelihoods.”

As the planting season approaches, the importance of accessible and affordable fertilizers cannot be overstated. Fertiplant’s efforts to address the country’s fertilizer deficit are a step in the right direction, supporting local farmers and contributing to Kenya’s agricultural development.

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Nakuru

Governor Kihika Hails Resumption of Itare Dam Construction

Once complete, the 56.1 million cubic meters of water that covers an area of approximately 2,500 hectares is expected to provide water to over 800,000 residents in Nakuru and its environs.

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Governor Susan Kihika has welcomed the resumption of the construction of the Kimwarer, Arror and Itare dams which were stalled in 2018 following various challenges.

In Particular, she expressed excitement about the revival of the Itare Dam project in Kuresoi North, which she believes will revolutionize agriculture and improve the supply of clean water in Nakuru County.

“The absolute best News!! Was waiting on this. ITARE Dam is a game changer for Nakuru County. Water & Food Security will be guaranteed,” she stated on her Twitter.

Earlier today, President Ruto met his Italian counterpart Sergio Mattarela where the two committed, in good faith, to re-establish cooperation on water and sanitation programs.

Speaking at State House, Ruto announced that they had agreed to withdraw the arbitration cases against the three dams and that they should be able to resume construction in a few months.

“I’m proud to announce that the three dams which were subjected to court cases and court matters, we should be able to go on with the construction of these three dams in a few months,” he said.

Governor Kihika commended the President for honouring one of his campaign promises; that he would revive the construction and completion of the dam once elected.

The Sh38 billion project stalled in 2018 due to delays in the disbursement of funds from both the Kenyan government and the Italian government, which is funding part of the project.

The project has also faced several legal disputes, including a case filed by a group of activists who claim that the project will have adverse effects on the environment and the local communities.

Once complete, the 56.1 million cubic meters of water that covers an area of approximately 2,500 hectares is expected to provide water to over 800,000 residents in Nakuru County.

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Nakuru Rastafarians Urge Kenyans to Protect Cultural Traditions, Values after LGBTQ Ruling

Same-sex unions remain illegal in Kenya, as homosexual activity is criminalized under Section 162 of the Penal Code. The maximum sentence for engaging in homosexual activity is 14 years in prison.

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Rasta and Gay Pride colors

The Rastafari community in Nakuru is calling on Kenyans to stand up and protect their cultural traditions and values following the recent Supreme Court of Kenya ruling on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ).

The apex court recently criticised the government for failing to register unions and associations for the LGBTQ people, saying the decision discriminates against the rights of the community.

The NGOs Co-ordination Board had refused to register six unions, among them the National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission and the Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Council

In a strong statement, the Empress Menen Cultural Group is urging the government to take immediate action, of whatever nature, to reverse the ruling, which they say undermines the very fabric of the society.

The group’s chairman, Kimathi Thuo stated that leaders must protect Kenya’s traditional values and promote the principles of natural law and morality.

“We call on the government to ensure that the traditional values that have guided us throughout our history are respected and protected,” he stated on the sidelines of a worship service in Nakuru City.

He said the community fully supports the recent comments made by political leaders, led by President William Ruto regarding LGBTQ unions and associations.

The Rastafari community emphasized that the government should immediately give a way forward, specifically that which respects the country’s values and beliefs

“It is only through united and such honest efforts that we can ensure that these values are preserved for future generations,” stated Thuo the Rastafarians stand with all groups protecting the sanctity of family structures.

LGBTQ advocacy groups and individuals have for years been pushing for greater recognition and protection of the rights of the LGBTQ community in Kenya.

They have been vocal about the need to repeal laws that criminalize homosexuality and provide legal recognition and protection for same-sex relationships.

However, same-sex unions remain illegal in Kenya, as homosexual activity is criminalized under Section 162 of the Penal Code. The maximum sentence for engaging in homosexual activity is 14 years in prison.

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DG Kones Advocates for Bible Accessibility in All Languages

The greatest missionary is the Bible in the mother tongue. It never needs a furlough, is never considered a foreigner, and it costs nothing

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Participants during the fun run. Photo/NGPU

The importance of the Bible in Christianity cannot be overemphasized, as it serves as the foundation for Christian beliefs and practices. However, for some communities, access to this holy book in their native language is a challenge, hindering their spiritual growth and understanding of the faith.

To bridge this gap, the Bible Translation and Literacy organization celebrated its 41st anniversary by organizing a fun run at Nakuru High School to raise awareness and funds for its translation projects.

Nakuru Deputy Governor David Kones, who attended the event, stressed the significance of making the Bible accessible to all communities, saying, “The Bible is a powerful tool for spiritual growth and guidance, and everyone must have access to it in their native language.”

The event was also graced by other officials, including Chief Officer Resource mobilisation Pastor Alex Maina, Vice-chair of BTK Board Kendi Ogamba, and the manager of Investment BTK Godfrey Mwenda. They also participated in flagging off the race, marking the organization’s inception 41 years ago.

The run saw the participation of children from various schools, reminding everyone of the importance of making the Bible available to all communities, regardless of language or background. As the Deputy Governor rightly put it, “Let’s do good when we can, for time waits for no man.”

Overall, this fun run serves as a call to action to support organizations like Bible Translation and Literacy, as they work towards making the Bible accessible to all communities. In the words of the organization’s founder, Cameron Townsend, “The greatest missionary is the Bible in the mother tongue. It never needs a furlough, is never considered a foreigner, and it costs nothing.”

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