This archive report was first published on 22 May 2020.
On May 20, 2020, Agriculture Secretary Peter Munya announced the start of reforms at the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB), a move aimed at tackling corruption and improving the agency's performance.
The reforms, which are part of a broader effort to revamp the NCPB, include the establishment of a technical committee to vet employees and the board of directors.
According to Munya, the vetting process will help to identify and address any capacity or suitability issues among the serving officers, ensuring that the NCPB executes its functions more effectively.
Other reforms lined up include the establishment of the National Food Reserve at the NCPB, which will enable the agency to buy and sell maize and other grains under its commercial wing, making it financially independent.
As part of the reforms, Munya also plans to inject fresh expertise into the NCPB board, which he believes requires a new set of skills to oversee the agency's new functions.
Speaking on Wednesday, Munya directed the technical committee and the NCPB board to undertake the vetting process immediately, saying that it was essential to ensure the NCPB's effectiveness and independence.