Mainga Leads Rail Push to Deliver Subsidized Fertilizer Ahead of Long Rains.

Kenya Railways Managing Director Mr. Philip J. Mainga, EBS, on Wednesday led the transportation of subsidized fertilizer to key upcountry depots in a move aimed at strengthening preparations for the 2026 long-rains planting season.

The fertilizer consignments were railed from the Metre Gauge Railway (MGR) Athi River Station to National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) depots in Eldoret, Moi’s Bridge and Kitale.

The flag-off ceremony was presided over by Principal Secretary for Agriculture Dr. Paul Kipronoh Ronoh and hosted by Mr. Mainga. The event was also attended by NCPB Managing Director CPA Samuel Karogo Ndung’u and Maisha Minerals and Fertilizer Ltd Director Mr. Bhargav Pandit.

The shipment included the maiden Mavuno-branded fertilizer produced by Maisha Minerals and Fertilizer Ltd., a subsidiary of Devki Steel Mills Ltd.
Officials said the rail movement is part of the Government’s ongoing food security programme to ensure timely delivery of subsidized farm inputs to farmers across the country.

Since 2023, Kenya Railways has been transporting Government-subsidized fertilizer to rail-served NCPB depots, enhancing efficiency in bulk cargo movement and reducing reliance on road transport.

Under Mr. Mainga’s leadership the managing director of Kenya railways, the Corporation has strengthened freight operations through the use of the Metre Gauge Railway (MGR), Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) and intermodal SGR/MGR solutions at facilities such as Mai Mahiu Station and the Naivasha Inland Container Depot (ICD).

Mai Mahiu Station is equipped with a 4,000-ton storage warehouse, supporting integrated rail and warehousing services.
Additional depots set to receive fertilizer during the long and short rains seasons include Thika, Sagana, Karatina, Kiganjo, Nanyuki, Naivasha, Nakuru, Elburgon, Kipkelion, Butere, Kipkarren River, Yala, Turbo, Webuye, Bungoma and Malaba.
Kenya Railways said it remains committed to providing reliable and cost-effective freight services to support agricultural productivity and national development.