President William Ruto’s administration is delivering significant results in Kenya’s agricultural sector, focusing on farmer welfare, reduced costs, and increased productivity.

At the midpoint of his term (2022-2025), the government has implemented transformative policies that aim to stabilize farmer incomes, enhance food security, and reduce reliance on imports. Reflecting on these strides, President Ruto recently shared on X:

“ Kenya’s agricultural sector is thriving with farmer insurance, stable incomes & reduced costs. Higher yields, lower imports, and better prices show progress you can track. Ruto delivers results you can feel hence a stronger, more sustainable food system!. #BETAAgriculture”

Protecting Farmers Through Insurance

A major milestone under President Ruto’s leadership has been the expansion of agricultural insurance.

• 1.6 million farmers and livestock keepers in 21 arid and semi-arid (ASAL) counties now have insurance coverage, shielding them from drought, disease, and market losses.
• 571,343 livestock units (including cattle, goats, and camels) are now insured, representing a 730% increase in livestock insurance.

This move ensures farmers and pastoralists can withstand unpredictable climatic and market conditions while securing their livelihoods.

Making Farming More Affordable

President Ruto’s administration has prioritized lowering farming costs to ease the financial burden on farmers.

• Fertilizer prices have been significantly reduced from KES 7,500 to KES 2,500 per 50kg bag, a 67% reduction.
• Maize production has surged from 34 million bags to 47.6 million bags, increasing food supply and cushioning the nation from shortages.
• Reduced food prices are making essential commodities like maize flour more affordable for Kenyan households.

Providing Farmers With High-Quality Seeds

Access to certified seeds is crucial for improving crop yields, and the government has made strides in this area:

• More farmers now have access to certified seeds, boosting agricultural productivity.
• 975 metric tonnes of certified rice seeds have been provided to promote rice farming.
• 56.6 metric tonnes of BT cotton seeds have been distributed to revive cotton farming in Kenya.

Additionally, developers who build 100+ affordable houses yearly benefit from 15% corporate tax incentives, encouraging investment in rural areas.

Guaranteed Minimum Returns (GMR) for Stable Farmer Incomes

To ensure farmers earn fair returns, the government has introduced policies guaranteeing minimum returns:

• Milk farmers now earn KES 50 per litre, up from KES 37 in 2022, reflecting a 35% increase.
• Maize production has increased by 40%, reducing the country’s dependence on maize imports.
• Green tea prices have risen by 32%, enhancing farmers’ earnings.
• Coffee farmers’ incomes have grown due to a 2.5% increase in coffee prices.

These measures ensure that farmers receive fair compensation, improving their livelihoods and boosting rural economies.

Increasing Food Production and Reducing Imports

Ruto’s administration has made substantial progress in improving domestic food production and cutting down on costly imports:

• 66.6% reduction in maize imports as local production increases.
• 76% increase in sugar production, reducing reliance on sugar imports.
• 1.7 billion KES in pending sugarcane farmer payments has been cleared, ensuring timely compensation for sugarcane growers.

A Stronger, More Sustainable Future

President Ruto’s agricultural reforms underscore his commitment to fostering a resilient and sustainable food system in Kenya. By lowering production costs, increasing yields, and ensuring farmers receive fair returns, his administration is laying the foundation for long-term agricultural growth.

As the nation progresses through his term, these policies promise to strengthen food security, reduce poverty among farmers, and position Kenya as a leader in sustainable agriculture. With continued focus and implementation, Ruto’s vision for a thriving agricultural sector is becoming a reality—delivering results Kenyans can feel and track every day.