On December 30, 2021, the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) made a significant announcement that brought relief to Kenyan farmers. The board will now purchase 90kg maize at Sh3,000, a move aimed at reducing competition from traders and private millers.
NCPB Managing Director Joseph Kimote explained that the new price will enable farmers to get a fair value for their maize. To be eligible for the purchase, the maize must meet Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) Grade 1 and 2 standards.
According to Kimote, there are no administrative conditions for farmers to deliver maize as long as it meets the required standards. The payment will be made within 24 hours of delivery.
The NCPB also announced that it will offer storage facilities at competitive rates, including the warehouse receipt system and regular warehousing. Additionally, the board will provide post-harvest services such as grain drying, cleaning, grading, and aflatoxin control.
