The government has ruled out increasing maize prices at the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB), despite calls from farmers for a higher rate of Sh6,000 per 90-kilogram bag. Instead, farmers will continue to receive Sh4,000 per bag, a price that the government maintains is profitable. Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Rono made this announcement at the NCPB depot in Eldoret on Friday, emphasizing that the current price remains the best offer for farmers.
Rono explained that the Sh4,000 price point is favorable for farmers and that they have the freedom to sell their produce to the NCPB or seek better prices from alternative buyers in the market. “That is the best price we are offering, and we know it’s very profitable, but farmers have the options of either selling their produce to the NCPB or giving it to other buyers out there who may offer better prices,” said Rono.
So far, farmers have sold more than 700,000 bags of maize to the NCPB, amounting to payments exceeding Sh1.5 billion. Rono assured farmers who are yet to receive payment that they would receive their funds by the end of the year. He highlighted that this year’s harvest is expected to reach over 70 million bags of maize, the highest yield ever recorded in the country. The bumper harvest is attributed to the government’s supply of subsidized fertilizer and the provision of high-quality seeds, according to Rono.
During his visit, Rono was accompanied by Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii, who also expressed support for the government’s stance on maize pricing and the initiatives to aid farmers. Rono stated that the government will continue to offer subsidized fertilizer, with distribution starting in November across all parts of the country to enable farmers to prepare for the next planting season. “We are already in the tendering process for the fertilizer so that we get those who will help in distributing the fertilizer,” he said, assuring farmers that the fertilizer provided will be of high quality.
To further support farmers, the government has distributed 100 driers nationwide as part of its efforts to reduce the 30 percent post-harvest losses incurred annually by farmers. This initiative is expected to significantly minimize losses and improve farmers’ profitability.
Rono also urged farmers to embrace crop diversification to enhance soil fertility and maximize their earnings from farming. As part of this effort, the government will distribute sunflower seeds to farmers in 41 counties, encouraging the cultivation of alternative crops alongside maize. The PS highlighted that all farm inputs, including seeds and fertilizers, will be available at the same depots to reduce farmers’ logistical costs.
In response to the effects of climate change, Rono emphasized the importance of smart farming practices, encouraging farmers to mechanize their operations to increase efficiency and productivity. He noted that the government is committed to supporting not just maize farmers but also those growing other key crops, such as tea and sugarcane, by implementing similar measures to boost their yields and income.
While the government’s decision to maintain maize prices at Sh4,000 per bag may not satisfy all farmers, Rono reiterated that the focus remains on creating a sustainable agricultural environment that offers profitability and resilience against market fluctuations and climate challenges. As the new harvest season approaches, the government’s commitment to supporting farmers through subsidies and modern farming practices is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring food security and economic stability in the agricultural sector.
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