This archive report was first published on 8 June 2020.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt economic activities, farmers in the North Rift region of Kenya are finding alternative ways to boost their income. One such alternative is green maize, which is now being sold in rural areas.
According to reports, the unpredictable markets and harsh economic situation have forced farmers to sell their green maize ahead of the normal harvesting season. This is despite the region having recorded adequate rainfall and favourable conditions since the beginning of the current planting season.
Some farmers have expressed concerns that the government's decision to stop buying maize from them has led to a drop in prices, making it difficult for them to sell their produce. As a result, they are now opting to sell their green maize to traders who transport it to urban centres where it is commonly consumed.
Joseph Maiyo, a farmer in Kaptumo, said that traders transporting green maize with lorries have been purchasing the produce at lower prices than they expected. Harizon Mosonik, another farmer, added that green maize fetches better prices than dry grain, with no additional costs associated with harvesting, shelling, and storage.
As schools remain closed due to the pandemic, some farmers have been forced to sell green maize to feed their children who have been home for three months. The situation has left many farmers in the region feeling dejected, but they are slowly venturing into diversification with the help of extension services.
SEE ALSO: Farmers Oppose Move to Import Maize
