Kenya is set for a historic maize harvest in 2025. Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe announced that the country will produce 70 million 90kg bags.
This is an increase from 67 million bags in 2024 and more than double the 34.3 million bags in 2022.
Fertilizer Subsidy Program Boosts Production
CS Kagwe credited the government’s Fertilizer Subsidy Programme for the bumper harvest. So far, the program has delivered 21.3 million bags of fertilizer worth Ksh 53.25 billion.
Farmers have saved Ksh 105 billion, while fertilizer prices dropped by up to 67% per 50kg bag. These measures have helped farmers increase production and reduce costs.
For the 2025 long rains season, 6.9 million bags of fertilizer were distributed. Plans are underway to scale up to 12.5 million subsidized bags in 2026, covering all 1,450 wards nationwide.
National Food Reserve and Market Support
CS Kagwe said the government will restock the National Strategic Food Reserve by buying maize directly from farmers.
“This initiative will secure national food security, stabilize markets, and give farmers a reliable market for their produce,” he said.
Promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture
Kagwe emphasized climate-smart agriculture. Farmers are encouraged to plant trees on steep slopes to prevent erosion and use only approved pesticides to protect rivers and water sources.
He also reassured farmers that Kenya will comply with the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) to keep Kenyan produce competitive in global markets.
Looking Ahead
With this projected harvest, the government aims to balance food security, sustainable farming, and fair incomes for farmers.
The 2025 maize harvest marks a major milestone for Kenya’s agricultural sector, showcasing the impact of government support and climate-smart farming practices.
