Government Suspends 8 KEBS Officials Over Fake Fertiliser Saga
The government’s investigation into the fake fertilizer scandal has escalated with the suspension of eight Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) officials.
These officials stand accused of granting certification and quality marks to two companies implicated in the distribution of sub-standard fertilizer.
Additionally, other officials suspected of involvement are slated for questioning as detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) strive to unravel the intricacies of the case.
The suspension of these officials was prompted by an order from the Ministry of Agriculture, which directed the cessation of their duties and the confiscation of counterfeit fertilizer distributed through the subsidy program.
It has been confirmed by the ministry that fertilizers labeled Kelphos Plus, Kelphos gold, and NPK 10:26:10, distributed by KEL Chemicals, failed to meet the required test parameters. This affected consignment was distributed by KEL Chemical fertilizers between March 5th and 10th, 2024.
Following the release of test results by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), the government took decisive action to safeguard the agricultural sector and farmers by announcing the immediate suspension of KEL Chemicals’ operations and seizure of its fertilizer products, stated a government official.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development strongly advises farmers who have acquired or possess fertilizer from KEL Chemicals to immediately discontinue its use and to visit their nearest NCPB facility for further guidance.
These findings have prompted Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi to change his stance, as he had previously dismissed reports of counterfeit fertilizer. Linturi has called for expedited investigations into the matter, which has left farmers apprehensive.
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Government Suspends 8 KEBS Officials Over Fake Fertiliser Saga
