In a move to support local farmers and bolster food security, the Kenyan government has unveiled plans to acquire one million bags of domestically grown maize at an enhanced price of Ksh. 4,000 per 90-kilogram bag. This announcement follows a remarkable harvest season.
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mithika Linturi made this declaration while addressing the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries. Linturi explained that the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) will be tasked with procuring the maize for the National Strategic Food Reserve.
Furthermore, the CS disclosed that the government has invested in mobile dryers to assist farmers in the drying process of their grain prior to government procurement. Linturi emphasized the significance of this development, noting that it will help farmers preserve the quality of their maize and increase their income. He added that post-harvest losses have been a persistent challenge for farmers in the past.
Linturi provided additional reassurance to the Committee, chaired by Kirinyaga County Senator James Murango. He outlined ongoing efforts to address issues related to macadamia nut production and marketing, aiming to make this sub-sector more profitable.
“We are actively exploring international markets to ensure our farmers reap the benefits of the macadamia sub-sector. The Ministry is dedicated to enhancing food production and improving earnings for all farmers, with the aim of achieving food security in the country,” the CS affirmed.
This announcement closely follows President William Ruto’s recent decision to prohibit permits for millers to import wheat or maize, with the goal of safeguarding local farmers and stabilizing prices. President Ruto emphasized that the government will allocate Ksh. 4 billion to purchase maize directly from farmers and urged them not to sell their produce at lower-than-deserved prices.
The Head of State also highlighted the use of NCPB dryers, which will be available for drying farmers’ maize at a reduced cost of Ksh. 50 per bag, significantly lower than the previous rate of Ksh. 400 per bag. This initiative is expected to minimize post-harvest losses and provide farmers with a convenient option for storing their produce, even if they choose not to sell it to NCPB.
