Farmers across the country are being called upon to take the lead in the fight against counterfeit seeds through a new national promotion campaign that rewards them for choosing certified products.
Speaking during the launch of the national “Pick-Up” promotion campaign, Bayer East Africa Managing Director John Kanyingi said the initiative aims to encourage farmers to verify the authenticity of seeds by scratching Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) stickers placed on seed bags.
Kanyingi said the campaign not only seeks to curb the circulation of counterfeit seeds in the market but also appreciates farmers for their critical role in ensuring food security.
“We are encouraging farmers to scratch the KEPHIS stickers on the seed bags to confirm authenticity. In doing so, they participate in the fight against counterfeit products and also stand a chance to win prizes, including pick-up trucks and other farming equipment displayed here,” he said.
He warned that counterfeit seeds pose a major economic threat, as farmers often spend their hard-earned money on seeds that fail to deliver expected yields.
“When a farmer buys seed that does not perform, it translates into lower productivity and financial loss.
Genuine certified seeds guarantee high germination rates and optimal performance,” Kanyingi added.
He noted that in the past, farmers would plant up to four seeds in one hole in the hope that at least one would germinate. However, he assured them that certified hybrid seeds now offer nearly 100 percent germination when planted correctly.
“There is no need to plant multiple seeds just to increase chances of survival. With genuine seed, one seed per hole is enough and farmers can be confident it will germinate and form a healthy crop,” he said.
Kanyingi underscored the central role of small-scale farmers, noting that they account for the majority of maize production in Kenya.
“Maize is the staple food in Kenya and across many African countries. About 99 percent of maize production is done by small-scale farmers. There can never be food security without them,” he stated.
Also speaking at the event, South Rift and Nyanza District Manager Calvin Mosoti said the company has strengthened partnerships with distributors across about 10 counties from Nakuru to Siaya to ensure farmers access improved seed varieties and modern technology.
“In the face of climate change and global warming, we are leading in developing varieties that can withstand harsh conditions. We have seeds that are drought tolerant and resistant to diseases such as Maize Lethal Necrosis Disease (MLND),” Mosoti said.
He added that the company is working closely with distributors to ensure that high-quality seed technology reaches farmers at the grassroots level.
Farmers who have adopted the certified hybrid varieties shared testimonies of improved yields and livelihoods.
Nyabuto from Itumbe said the technology has enabled him to access quality fertilizers and improved seeds such as DK 77, which he recently planted with optimism for better returns.
Similarly, Catherine Kemunto, a farmer and field service coordinator in Bobasi, said planting DK 77 and DK 58 varieties has significantly improved her family’s well being.
“Since I started planting these varieties, I have seen great changes. Hunger is no longer a problem in my family. I am able to pay school fees and meet household bills through maize farming,” she said.
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