CS Linturi Raids Company Linked To Fake Fertiliser, Closes It Down Immediately

The move came after test results released by the Kenya Bureau of Standard (KEBS) on all fertiliser being distributed under the subsidy programme found that the product did not meet the quality requirements.

Marvin Chege Marvin Chege
Apr 5, 2024 - 18:09 Updated: Apr 12, 2024 - 16:56
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CS Linturi Raids Company Linked To Fake Fertiliser, Closes It Down Immediately
Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi during a visit to KEL Chemicals, April 12. /CAPITAL BREAKING NEWS

UPDATE Friday, April 12: The government through the Ministry of Agriculture has revoked the licence of KEL Chemicals over claims of selling substandard fertiliser to farmers as part of the government's fertiliser subsidy programme.

This move came after Agriculture Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mithika Linturi paid a visit to the Thika-based company's production facilities on Friday, and subsequently ordered its immediate closure.

"I want to confirm that we have withdrawn the licence of KEL Chemicals, and this facility is now designated as a crime scene. No operations will continue here until the investigation into this matter is concluded," Linturi announced.

The visit to the factory aimed to review the processes of manufacturing, mixing, packaging, and distribution of the fertiliser provided to farmers across the country.

The government has confirmed that sub-standard (fake) fertiliser has been distributed to farmers across the country, clearing the air amidst double-speak and confusion regarding the presence and distribution of the same.

The Ministry of Agriculture, while confirming the presence of the substandard fertiliser, suspended the distribution of the vital farm input by KEL chemicals pending legal action.

The move came after test results released by the Kenya Bureau of Standard (KEBS) on all fertiliser being distributed under the subsidy programme found that the product distributed by KEL chemicals did not meet the quality requirements.

KEBS consequently initiated legal action against KEL Chemicals for distributing substandard products as per the Standards Act Cap 496.

KEBS acting Managing Director Esther Ngari speaking during an event on August 8, 2023, at Nairobi Serena Hotel. /TWITTER.ESTHER NGARI

“This measure underscores the Government commitment to upholding stringent product quality and safety standards, ensuring accountability and safeguarding the agricultural sector and the wider public,” stated the Ministry.

Among the brands distributed by KEL chemicals that did not meet all required test parameters include Kelphos Plus, Kelphos Gold and NPK 10:26:10, a matter which affected consignments distributed between March 5 to 10, 2024.

“Following the release of test results by KEBS, the Government has taken decisive action to safeguard the agricultural sector and farmers by announcing the immediate suspension of KEL Chemicals' operations and seizure of its fertiliser products,” added the statement.

The Ministry advised farmers who have acquired or possess fertiliser from KEL Chemicals to immediately discontinue its use and to visit their nearest NCPB facility for further guidance.

KEBS had earlier recalled all fertiliser brands distributed by one company and revoked the standardisation marks in response to an investigative media expose that uncovered a series of unethical practices by the manufacturer in question.

On Monday, March 11, KEBS through its Managing Director, Esther Ngari revealed that the action was prompted by Africa Uncensored's exposé on the company which revealed that it fooled Kenyans by packaging sand and selling it as legitimate fertiliser.

Ngari explained that KEBS conducted a thorough investigation and collected 59 samples, which showed that the product failed to meet the regulator's standards.

The expose shook the country, bringing to light the saga surrounding the fake fertiliser which was however dismissed by Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi as propaganda.

Ngari on her part had confirmed this week that KEBS had seized 5,840 bags amidst the presence of fake fertiliser in NCPB warehouses.

Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura on his part addressed the allegations during a press briefing at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Thursday, April 3.

Mwaura disclosed that investigations were underway to identify individuals responsible for the manufacture and distribution of the alleged fake fertiliser. Samples tested by KEBS indicated discrepancies in the supplied fertiliser not aligned with the subsidy programme.

Bags of fertiliser stored at a National Cereals and Produce Board warehouse. /KENYA NEWS AGENCY

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