Farmers have been put on high alert following the seizure of over 200 bags of counterfeit fertiliser, worth Sh23 million, in Molo, Nakuru County. Authorities also arrested two suspects.

The exercise was jointly carried out by the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) in collaboration with the National Police Service (NPS) and other enforcement agencies.

ACA Executive Director Dr Robi Njoroge said the counterfeit fertiliser and agrochemicals pose grave threat to the agricultural sector. He revealed that the ongoing crackdown is part of the agency’s efforts to protect Kenyan farmers and ensure food security by eliminating counterfeit agro-inputs from the market.

“Counterfeit agricultural inputs are a direct threat to Kenya’s food security and economic stability. Farmers unknowingly purchase fake fertilisers, which lead to poor harvests, soil degradation and financial losses,” said Njoroge during a media briefing in Eldoret.

The director said the authority in collaboration with enforcement agencies is committed to intensifying operations against counterfeiters and ensuring that farmers receive only genuine agricultural inputs.

The operation in Molo followed an earlier one in Kariokor, Nairobi where over 19,000 counterfeit empty fertiliser bags were seized, preventing them from being used in fraudulent repackaging schemes.

Major concern

Between 2020 and 2025, ACA has seized counterfeit fertilisers valued at Sh7.4 million and fake agrochemicals worth Sh39.7 million, significantly disrupting counterfeit supply chains across the country.

According to ACA, counterfeit agro-inputs remain a major concern in Rift Valley, Nairobi and the Coastal region, where high activity makes farmers particularly vulnerable.

Njoroge said the authority is working with regional and international partners as well, including the East African Community (EAC) to curb the inflow of counterfeit agro- products into Kenya.

The government has since procured 99 million bags of subsidised fertiliser for planting this season, translating to an increase of 2,887 metric tonnes compared to the 2024 growing season. The fertiliser was procured from Russia through competitive international bidding.

ACA has urged farmers to be cautious and verify products before purchasing and always buy from reputable dealers and check for certification marks.

“We call on farmers to support government enforcement efforts by working collectively to eliminate counterfeit goods from the agricultural market,” said Njoroge.

He acknowledged the continued support of law enforcement agencies, regulatory bodies, and agricultural stakeholders in the fight against counterfeit agro-inputs.

“The media also remains our key partner in amplifying awareness and in ensuring that counterfeiters are held accountable. We urge media houses to continue their efforts in sensitising farmers and the public on this critical issue,” said Njoroge.

State effort

He added that the agency remains resolute in its mission to eliminate counterfeit products from the market, through strengthened enforcement, public awareness and multi-agency collaboration.

The ACA is a state body established under the Anti-Counterfeit Act 2008 as a State corporation with the mandates to enlighten and inform the public on matters relating to counterfeiting and combating counterfeits.

It is also mandated to devise and promote training programmes to combat counterfeiting and coordinate with the national, regional or international organisations involved in combating counterfeiting.