Kenya to Ban Wheat, Maize Imports to Protect Local Farmers

Millers will not be granted licenses to import wheat or maize into the country.

President William Ruto stated that the action is intended to protect local farmers.

He stated that the government would break from the mandate only if local produce is insufficient.

The President stated that the government will spend Ksh 4 billion to purchase corn from farmers.

The action, according to the President, is intended to stabilise prices.

He made the remarks at State House in Nairobi on Thursday when he met with a team from Narok North Constituency led by MP Agnes Pareiyo.

Governors Patrick Ole Ntutu (Narok) and Jonathan Leleliit (Samburu) were also present, as were Narok West MP Gabriel Tongoyo, MCAs, and grassroots leaders.

“We ask our farmers not to sell their produce at throw-away prices.”

To reduce post-harvest losses due to high moisture levels, the Head of State announced that NCPB driers would be utilised to dry farmers’ corn for a price of Ksh 50.

This compares to a peak of roughly Sh400 per bag.

“Even if farmers don’t want to sell their maize to NCPB, they will have an opportunity to dry their produce at the State agency and store it,” he explained.

According to the President, a KCC milk plant will be built in Narok to increase milk quality and hence boost prices.