This archive report was first published on 5 May 2020.
Kenya is facing a maize shortage, which could lead to a significant increase in the cost of ugali, a staple food in the country.
According to Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya, all the maize under the strategic grain reserves has been contaminated by aflatoxin, a harmful and cancer-causing fungi, making it unfit for human consumption.
This revelation comes at a time when the country is already struggling with the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, locust invasion, and a depressed economy.
Mr. Munya's statement contradicts earlier claims by the Strategic Food Reserve (SFR) chairman, Dr. Noah Wekesa, who warned that the country was facing a crippling food shortage in March.
Dr. Wekesa had stated that the country had sold all its stock of maize and couldn't replenish it due to high asking prices by sellers.
However, the government has now permitted millers to import four million bags of maize from Mexico to bridge the impending shortfall.
Senator Naomi Shinyonga questioned the government's decision to allow maize imports instead of preserving what farmers have produced.
The maize shortage has already led to a significant increase in the price of maize, with Kenyans being forced to spend as much as Sh150 for a tin of maize, which until recently retailed at Sh90.
