This archive report was first published on 30 December 2021.
On December 30, 2021, the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) made a significant announcement that brought relief to Kenyan farmers. The board has decided to purchase 90kg maize at a price of 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. The board has also emphasized that the payment will be made within 24 hours of delivery, provided the maize meets the 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 board is purchasing the maize for its commercial function and encourages all farmers within the regions that are currently harvesting or have already harvested to deliver their grain to the NCPB depot.
The agency has also announced the availability of storage facilities at competitive rates, including the warehouse receipt system and regular warehousing. Additionally, NCPB will offer storage services and other post-harvest services such as grain drying, cleaning, grain grading, and aflatoxin control.