The National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) in Kenya has suspended its Managing Director Joseph Kimote amid allegations of involvement in a fake fertilizer scandal. Samuel Karogo, the Finance and Accounting General Manager, has been appointed as the acting MD. Kimote, along with two other officials, was arrested in connection with the multi-million-dollar fraud case. The Director of Public Prosecution approved charges against them and a businessman involved in the deal. The scandal has also led to an impeachment motion against Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi. The Ministry of Agriculture has advised farmers to stop using the counterfeit fertilizer and seek guidance from NCPB. The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has taken legal action against the manufacturer of the fake fertilizer. In response to the scandal, the Ministry of Agriculture has directed NCPB to recall all substandard fertilizers distributed to farmers. The investigations into the matter have also led to questioning of officials from government agencies. The NCPB chairman confirmed the decision to suspend Kimote and other officials involved in the scandal, ensuring that work continues smoothly despite the changes in leadership. Samuel Karogo will now oversee the operations at NCPB in an acting capacity.
Source
Photo credit www.capitalfm.co.ke
NCPB Managing Director ousted following fertilizer scandal, replaced by Samuel Karogo
