The government has assured Kenyans that the country will remain food secure despite drought and changing weather patterns affecting maize production in several parts of the country.
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe said the government was implementing measures to support farmers affected by dry conditions, prevent food shortages and keep prices of essential commodities stable.
Speaking after an assessment tour of Eldoret on Sunday, Nandi and Trans Nzoia counties, CS Kagwe acknowledged that changing weather patterns had negatively affected maize production in some areas.
He said maize farmers played a critical role in feeding the country and supporting the economy, adding that the government would not abandon those whose crops had been affected.
“We will not allow Kenyans to suffer from hunger because of the current weather conditions,” Kagwe said.
He said interventions were being put in place to cushion farmers from the effects of climate change while strengthening food production and ensuring a stable food supply.
The CS also warned against the sale of counterfeit seeds, describing the trade as one of the biggest threats to agricultural production and food security.
He said some farmers only discovered they had purchased fake seeds five or six months after planting, when crops failed and their investments had already been lost.
Kagwe directed security agencies to intensify the crackdown on traders dealing in counterfeit seeds.
He also called on Members of Parliament to support legislation that would classify the sale of fake seeds as an economic crime, arguing that the practice amounted to economic sabotage because it threatened the country's food supply.
Farmers were urged to verify both sellers and the source of seeds before making purchases, with the CS recommending certified seeds from recognised institutions such as Kenya Seed Company and KALRO.
Kenya Seed Company chief executive Sammy Chepsiror said the country had sufficient seed stocks despite the prevailing drought.
Chepsiror attributed increased planting and production to the government's subsidy programme, saying the intervention had played a key role in strengthening food security.
He said last year's commercial maize harvest reached nearly 70 million 90kg bags, while this year's production had shown greater potential before drought affected several maize-growing areas.
He expressed confidence that planned government interventions would cushion farmers and help keep the country food secure.
The government has faced growing concerns over the impact of prolonged dry conditions on agricultural production, particularly maize, one of Kenya's main food crops.
Kagwe said continued support for farmers, access to quality seeds and measures to protect consumers would be central to maintaining food supplies despite changing weather patterns.