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"We are working on the clock to ensure that farmers are getting the right seeds for the planting season," M'uthari said.
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"Recently, we also arrested one of the suspects."
Image: FILE
The Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) has pledged to intensify a nationwide crackdown on agro vets selling fake seeds to farmers.
Speaking in Mombasa on Friday, KEPHIS chairman Joseph M’uthari said that they have already arrested a few people.
"We are working on the clock to ensure that farmers are getting the right seeds for the planting season," M'uthari said.
"Recently, we also arrested one of the suspects."
The suspect was reported to also have fake KEPHIS stickers for the seeds.
"A multi-agency team got 18 metric tons of fake seeds mainly of maize, arrested and charged 65 persons across the country," he said.
He also added that the team shall increase the number of personnel to curb the selling of fake seeds.
He also urged farmers to ensure they buy the seeds at recognised outlets licensed by KEPHIS to avoid being conned.
"We will work to catch the perpetrators who will be required to pay a hefty fine or face a two-year imprisonment," M'uthari said.
"We shall visit several counties nearing the planting season to ensure catching those selling the seeds."
The seeds have been said to reduce the production of food in the country and also affect the state of the economy.
The sale of suspected counterfeit seeds has been reported in Kericho, Bomet, Trans Nzoia, Bungoma, Elgeyo Marakwet, Kiambu, Muranga, Nakuru, Nairobi, Kajiado, Makueni, Nyamira, and Kisii counties.
This comes after President William Ruto on Wednesday warned manufacturers and distributors of fake farm inputs saying those found culpable will face the 'music they deserve'.
The President spoke amid a public outcry over alleged fake fertilisers and uncertified crop seeds being distributed in the market.