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.
