Farmers in Nyanza Trained to Spot and Avoid Fake Agricultural Inputs

Farmers across the Nyanza region have been urged to stay alert against counterfeit agricultural inputs, as stakeholders intensify efforts to tackle the widespread problem of fake farm products in Kenya.

The awareness initiative, held in Kisii and spearheaded by Bayer East Africa in partnership with Dekalb Seed Company, aims to protect farmers from significant losses linked to substandard inputs.

Counterfeit agricultural products—including fake seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides—continue to pose serious long-term risks to the sector. Experts warn that repeated use of poor-quality seeds can result in declining crop quality and weakened genetic integrity, leaving crops more vulnerable to pests, diseases, and climate variability.

Similarly, low-grade fertilizers may degrade soil health by stripping essential nutrients or introducing harmful substances, ultimately reducing soil fertility and future yields. Ineffective pesticides can also accelerate pest resistance, making infestations harder and more expensive to manage.

These challenges not only drive up production costs but also threaten food security, shrink farmers’ incomes, and undermine confidence in agricultural markets.

Speaking during the event, a Bayer East Africa official, Barnabas Moseki, noted that Kenya remains among the countries hardest hit by counterfeit farm inputs.

“Farmers must remain alert to avoid buying fake inputs this planting season. That is why we are conducting these awareness campaigns,” said Moseki.

He advised farmers to purchase agricultural products only from licensed agro-dealers and agents approved by the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service, the government body responsible for regulating and certifying seeds.

Moseki emphasized that counterfeit seeds present a major economic risk, often leading to poor yields and financial losses.

“When farmers invest in seeds that fail to perform, they incur losses due to low productivity. Certified seeds guarantee higher germination rates and better overall performance,” he added.

The event also featured a promotional campaign by Dekalb, where Nyamira farmer Richard Atambo won a motorcycle after emerging as the top participant in the anti-counterfeit initiative.

Organizers expressed confidence that sustained farmer education, coupled with stronger collaboration among stakeholders, will significantly reduce the circulation of fake agricultural inputs and boost productivity across the region.