We have written about the sale of fake fertiliser and seeds before hoping that the government would act swiftly and decisively tackle the matter.
The problem is however spiralling in what looks like a well-orchestrated economic sabotage targeted at agriculture, Kenya's mainstay.
Reports are popping up everywhere of unscrupulous traders taking advantage of the demand for seeds and fertiliser during this planting season to sell substandard merchandise.
Interestingly, the government has mainly been on the defensive instead of using its wide network to curb the trade and secure Kenya's food production.
Fake seeds coupled with fake fertiliser will definitely lead to poor yields and an overall drop in the country's food production.
Could someone be out to ensure the country does not realise enough maize yields to create room for imports post-harvesting?
Or are the private sector fertiliser importers out to sabotage the government-subsidised fertiliser programme?
Fake fertiliser was unheard of before the government's entry into the procurement and supply of the product.
Our investigative authorities must get to the bottom of this scandal and save the country from a looming food shortage.
Maize farmers are already struggling to balance between the high cost of production and returns and any further frustration will make them abandon growing the cereal.
Food security is a key pillar to peace in any nation.
Quote of the Day: "Simplicity and common sense should characterize planning and strategic direction.”
Ingvar Kamprad
The Swedish eccentric businessman (founder of IKEA) and author was born on March 30, 1926
