Farmers warned against fake seeds in market

Rift Valley and Western Kenya farmers have been cautioned against counterfeit seeds trading in the local markets.

Kenya Seed Company (KSC) has warned of massive supply of fake seeds repackaged in the company's branded packs.

KSC Head of Marketing Sammy Chepsiror said the distribution of the counterfeit seeds was a great threat to food insecurity.

He pointed out Bungoma, Nakuru and parts of Nyanza as the most affected regions.

"We are aware that during planting seasons like now, unscrupulous traders take advantage of the farmers' demand for seeds to defraud them through sub-standard seeds. We are on high alert and want to ask farmers to be keen on what they are purchasing and report individuals trading in uncertified seeds," said Mr Chepsiror.

He added: "Last year, we revoked licences of some some individuals caught repackaging uncertified seeds in our branded packs."