This archive report was first published on 2 January 2022.
On Wednesday, the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) set the price of maize at Sh3,000 per 90kg bag, a decision that has left maize farmers in the Rift Valley region divided.
According to the NCPB, the price was reviewed from Sh1,305 per 50kg bag last month to Sh2,700 per 90kg bag before being set at Sh3,000 on Wednesday.
While some farmers, like Thomas Boen from Kaptebee in Turbo, Uasin Gishu County, are excited about the new price, others feel it is too little too late compared to the amounts they spent on inputs.
“We are excited that the Sh3,000 set by NCPB will push demand and prices offered by millers and traders who offer between Sh3,200 and Sh3,300 at the farm gate,” said Boen.
However, Ruth Kemboi, the chair of Kenya National Farmers Federation (Kenaff), Uasin Gishu branch, expressed concerns that the price is too low, especially considering that most farmers have exhausted their stocks.
“Most farmers have disposed of their maize to pay school fees. The Covid-19 pandemic also affected producers who rely on the sub-sector,” said Kemboi.
She added that the government should have set maize producer prices at Sh3,500 to make it profitable.
“The board is purchasing the maize for its commercial function and all farmers are encouraged to deliver their grain,” said a statement by NCPB managing director Joseph Kimote.
Maize farmers are also concerned about the high cost of production, changing climate patterns, pests, and diseases, which are affecting their earnings from maize farming.
