2026 Free Quality Maize Seeds Distribution Program (Fukuza Njaa Initiative): Strengthening Food Security in Trans-Nzoia County

The 2026 Free Quality Maize Seeds Distribution Program, popularly known as the FukuzaNjaa Initiative, is a flagship agricultural intervention by the Trans-Nzoia County Government under the leadership of George Natembeya. The program is designed to enhance food security, boost farm productivity, and cushion vulnerable households against rising production costs at the onset of the long rains season.

With the rains having begun, many residents across Trans-Nzoia County are keen to know when the distribution will commence. According to meteorological guidance, farmers who practice dry planting are advised to begin planting early next month. This recommendation is informed by the current rainfall patterns, which, while encouraging, have not yet been sufficiently absorbed by the soil to support optimal seed germination. For farmers who do not practice dry planting, the main planting window remains March and April, aligning with expectations that the rains will continue through April.

In the current financial year, the county allocated KSh 139 million to the Free Quality Maize Seeds Distribution Program, targeting 300,000 vulnerable farmers across the county. This substantial investment underscores the county administration’s commitment to ensuring timely access to quality inputs for smallholder farmers. Procurement of the maize seeds has already been completed, and the county government has indicated that the official launch date will be announced soon, allowing farmers to plan their planting schedules with confidence.

While the county does not have a budgetary allocation for fertilizer procurement, measures have been put in place to ensure farmers are not disadvantaged. The national government, through the National Cereals and Produce Board, has continued to facilitate the availability of fertilizer to ordinary citizens. Complementing this effort, the county government has provided last-mile storage facilities to support fertilizer distribution, reducing the need for farmers to travel long distances and lowering access barriers.

The impact of the Free Quality Maize Seeds Distribution Program is already evident. Last year, Trans-Nzoia County recorded an impressive harvest of 6.8 million bags of maize (90 kg each). However, despite this success, farmers suffered losses exceeding 500,000 bags due to post-harvest challenges, particularly inadequate drying and storage.

To address post-harvest losses and protect farmer incomes, grain dryers have been installed in strategic locations including Kwanza, Cherang’any-Suwerwa, and Mavuno. These dryers were provided by the national government, and the county administration is currently working to operationalize them. Once fully functional, the dryers will significantly reduce spoilage, improve grain quality, and help farmers maximize returns from their harvests.

Overall, the 2026 Fukuza Njaa Initiative reflects a comprehensive approach to agricultural development—combining timely input support, coordination with national agencies, and investments in post-harvest infrastructure—to strengthen food security and livelihoods in Trans-Nzoia County.