“Clean Up your Own Mess”: Tanzania Denies Allegations of Fake Fertilizer Scandal Origin
Written by moradio on 26 April 2024
NAIROBI, Kenya, April 26- Tanzanian Agriculture Minister Hussein Bashe has firmly rebutted allegations made by Kenyan lawyer Ahmednassir Abdullahi regarding the source of counterfeit fertilizer circulating in Kenya.
Abdullahi, known as Grand Mulla, asserted on social media that the fake fertilizer originated from Tanzania, challenging Kenyan authorities to disclose details about its production.
He wrote: “I now have actionable intelligence that the fake fertiliser was manufactured/procured from TANZANIA. I challenge Waziri Linturi, National Cereals and Produce Board and MEMS to tell Kenyans the quarry in Tanzania where the goat manure, sand and stones were mixed and in what proportions?”
Bashe, in response, expressed disbelief at the accusations, questioning whether they were part of the traditional banter between the two nations.
He vehemently denied Tanzania’s involvement in any fertilizer scandal, emphasizing the country’s commitment to honest trade practices.
“Tanzania does not export counterfeit commodities, including fertilizer, to Kenya. We are well aware of the exact nature of the goods our two companies(sic) have exported through official channels,” he said.
“Please address your own issues with shortcuts and questionable practices, as our trade policies are governed by principles rooted in integrity.”
Bashe underscored that Tanzania does not export counterfeit goods to Kenya and urged Kenya to address its internal issues without dragging Tanzania into unfounded allegations.
Additionally, Bashe cautioned against tarnishing Tanzania’s reputation and urged Kenya to take responsibility for resolving any problems independently.
Meanwhile, the fertilizer scandal has caused turmoil within Kenya’s Ministry of Agriculture, prompting calls for Agriculture Secretary Mithika Linturi’s resignation or dismissal.
Bumula Member of Parliament Jack Wamboka has gathered support for a motion of impeachment against Linturi, citing concerns over recurring scandals during his tenure.
