Farmers nationwide are being called to actively participate in the battle against counterfeit seeds through a new national initiative that rewards them for buying certified products.
Speaking at the launch of the national “Pick-Up” promotion campaign in Kisii, Bayer East Africa Managing Director John Kanyingi explained that the program aims to motivate farmers to verify seed authenticity by scratching stickers provided by the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) attached to seed packets.
Kanyingi stated that the campaign has dual objectives: reducing fake seed circulation and acknowledging farmers’ critical role in protecting national food security.
“We are urging farmers to scratch the KEPHIS stickers on seed packets to confirm authenticity. By doing this, they join the fight against counterfeit products and also have opportunities to win prizes, including pick-up trucks and other agricultural equipment displayed here,” he mentioned.
He cautioned that fake seeds present a substantial economic danger, highlighting that many farmers invest significantly in seeds that ultimately fail to produce expected yields.
“When a farmer purchases seed that doesn’t perform well, it results in reduced productivity and financial loss. Authentic certified seeds ensure high germination rates and optimal performance,” Kanyingi added.
He elaborated that previously, farmers typically planted up to four seeds in one hole to enhance germination chances.
However, he noted that certified hybrid seeds now provide almost perfect germination rates when planted properly.
“There’s no need to plant multiple seeds just to increase survival chances. With genuine seed, one seed per hole is sufficient and farmers can be confident it will germinate and develop into a healthy crop,” he explained.
Kanyingi emphasized the significance of small-scale farmers, indicating they constitute the majority of maize production in Kenya and throughout the region.
“Maize serves as the primary food in Kenya and numerous African nations. Approximately 99 percent of maize production is carried out by small-scale farmers. Food security cannot be achieved without their involvement,” he stated.
Also addressing the gathering, South Rift and Nyanza District Manager Calvin Mosoti reported that the company has enhanced partnerships with distributors across approximately 10 countiesfrom Nakuru to Siayato improve farmers’ access to improved seed varieties and modern agricultural technologies.
“In the context of climate change and global warming, we are at the forefront of developing varieties capable of withstanding harsh conditions. We possess seeds that are drought-tolerant and resistant to major crop diseases,” Mosoti mentioned.
He further explained that closer collaboration with distributors is ensuring high-quality seed technology reaches farmers at the community level.
Farmers who have embraced certified hybrid varieties shared accounts of enhanced yields and improved livelihoods.
Nyabuto, a farmer from Itumbe, expressed that access to improved seeds and fertilizers has increased his optimism for better harvests this season.
Similarly, Catherine Kemunto, a farmer and field service coordinator in Bobasi, noted that planting hybrid maize varieties has transformed her family’s well-being.
“Since I began planting these varieties, I have witnessed significant improvements. Hunger is no longer an issue in my family. I can afford to pay school fees and cover household expenses through maize farming,” she said.