Maize Production: A Bright Spot

One of the most notable successes in Kenya’s agricultural production between 2022 and 2023 was the significant increase in maize production. Maize is Kenya’s staple food, and its production rose by a remarkable 38.8 percent, reaching 47.6 million bags. This growth is a positive indicator of improved food security for the country, especially after previous years marked by food shortages exacerbated by erratic weather patterns. The increase in maize production reflects better-than-expected yields, attributed to favorable climatic conditions in key growing regions, as well as concerted efforts by the government and farmers to enhance productivity through the adoption of improved seeds and farming practices.

This rise in maize output is a critical achievement, as it helps address the country’s food security concerns and supports the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers. With maize being a primary food source for both urban and rural populations, the growth in production is vital in curbing the rising food prices that have burdened many Kenyan households in recent years.

Rice and Tea: Moderate Gains

Rice production also showed a notable increase, growing by 19.1 percent during this period. Rice is a staple in many parts of Kenya, and the growth in production can be attributed to expanded irrigation systems and improved farming methods. Additionally, there has been increasing investment in rice farming, particularly in areas like Mwea in Central Kenya, known for its vast paddy fields. While this growth is encouraging, rice farming in Kenya is still grappling with challenges such as high production costs and competition from imported rice, which remains a concern for local farmers.

Tea, a major export crop, also saw a moderate increase of 6.6 percent. Despite challenges such as fluctuating international prices and competition from other tea-producing countries, Kenya remains one of the top global exporters of tea. The growth in production indicates resilience within the sector, supported by ongoing investments in better processing techniques and farming practices aimed at increasing the quality of the product.

Wheat and Coffee: Declines Amid Adversity

On the downside, some key agricultural sectors experienced significant declines. Wheat production, for instance, dropped by 16.1 percent in 2022-2023. Wheat farmers in Kenya face a range of challenges, including rising input costs, limited access to irrigation, and the vagaries of unpredictable rainfall patterns. The decline in wheat output highlights the sector’s vulnerability to climate change, as prolonged droughts and inconsistent rainfall have led to lower yields in traditionally wheat-growing regions like Narok and parts of Rift Valley.

Similarly, coffee production suffered a 6.2 percent decline. While coffee remains one of Kenya’s most important export crops, the industry has been struggling with numerous issues, including aging coffee trees, declining soil fertility, and global price volatility. These factors, coupled with the unfavorable weather conditions during the 2022-2023 period, have resulted in decreased productivity, which has had a detrimental effect on smallholder coffee farmers who are heavily reliant on the crop for their livelihoods.

Sugarcane Sector: A Steep Decline

The sugarcane sector experienced the most significant drop, with production declining by a staggering 36.9 percent. This sharp reduction is a direct consequence of both internal and external challenges. The sector continues to suffer from inefficiencies within mills, mismanagement, and outdated technology. Furthermore, fluctuating sugar prices in the global market, coupled with competition from imported sugar, have placed additional strain on the industry. These challenges, compounded by adverse weather conditions, have resulted in lower yields and delayed payments to farmers, causing frustration and reduced confidence in the sector.

The Need for Resilience and Innovation

The varying trends in Kenya’s agricultural production between 2022 and 2023 underscore the sector’s susceptibility to external shocks, especially those related to climate change and global market forces. While the gains in maize, rice, and tea production are promising, the losses in wheat, coffee, and sugarcane production highlight the urgent need for innovation and resilience-building in agriculture.

To ensure sustainable growth and food security, Kenya must invest in climate-resilient crops, adopt more efficient farming practices, and improve infrastructure, particularly irrigation systems. There is also a need to diversify crops and reduce dependence on a few commodities, which would help buffer the sector from global price fluctuations. Additionally, supporting smallholder farmers with better access to technology, financing, and training is crucial to boosting productivity and ensuring that the gains in agriculture can be sustained in the long term.

In conclusion, while Kenya’s agricultural sector showed significant growth in some areas, the declines in others reveal the challenges that still need to be addressed. With the right investments in innovation and climate resilience, the sector has the potential to continue driving economic growth and enhancing food security in the coming years.

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Fertiliser Subsidy Programme

The fertiliser plan is anchored on the government’s ongoing fertiliser subsidy programme, which seeks to make quality fertiliser more accessible and affordable to farmers. With maize being a staple crop in Kenya, the need for increased seed production is critical, particularly in Trans Nzoia, one of the country’s leading maize-producing regions.

Under this plan, maize seed producers in Trans Nzoia will benefit from subsidised fertilisers that have been specifically designed to enhance seed yield and quality. The programme targets small-scale farmers, who constitute the majority of maize producers in the region, ensuring that they have access to the necessary inputs to improve productivity.

Boosting Seed Production

The main objective of the fertiliser plan is to increase the production of certified maize seeds, which are essential for sustaining maize farming across the country. Certified seeds are high-yielding and disease-resistant, making them crucial for the success of maize farming in Kenya’s changing climate. By boosting maize seed production in Trans Nzoia, the government hopes to address the perennial issue of seed shortages, which often hampers maize production nationwide.

Agricultural experts involved in the programme have emphasised the importance of using the right fertiliser combinations to optimise maize seed production. The fertilisers being distributed under the plan are specially formulated to meet the nutrient needs of maize seed crops, promoting better root development, vigorous growth, and higher seed yields.

Strategic Partnerships

The fertiliser plan is being implemented in partnership with local and international seed companies, agricultural research institutions, and farmer cooperatives. These partnerships are crucial in ensuring that farmers in Trans Nzoia receive not only the fertilisers but also the necessary training and support to use them effectively.

Seed companies involved in the programme are working closely with the government to ensure that the certified seeds produced under the plan meet the highest quality standards. The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) is also playing a key role by providing technical expertise on seed production and fertiliser use.

Farmer cooperatives in Trans Nzoia are being mobilised to distribute the subsidised fertilisers and ensure that they reach the intended beneficiaries. These cooperatives are also offering training on best farming practices, including proper fertiliser application techniques and soil management strategies.

Economic Impact

The fertiliser plan is expected to have a significant economic impact on Trans Nzoia County. By increasing maize seed production, the programme will create employment opportunities for local communities, particularly in seed processing and distribution. Additionally, with more certified seeds available, maize farmers across the country will benefit from improved yields, translating to higher incomes and greater food security.

For small-scale farmers in Trans Nzoia, the subsidised fertiliser offers a lifeline, as it reduces production costs and increases profitability. The government’s commitment to ensuring timely distribution of fertilisers ahead of the planting season is also critical in helping farmers maximise their harvests.

Climate-Smart Agriculture

In line with the government’s broader goal of promoting climate-smart agriculture, the fertiliser plan incorporates sustainable farming practices that are designed to mitigate the impacts of climate change. The fertilisers being distributed are tailored to improve soil fertility while minimising environmental degradation.

Farmers are being trained on how to integrate organic fertilisers and conservation tillage into their farming practices to preserve soil health and reduce carbon emissions. These practices are essential for building resilience against the unpredictable weather patterns that have become more frequent in recent years.

The introduction of nitrogen-fixing crops as part of crop rotation practices is another strategy being promoted alongside the fertiliser plan. These crops, such as legumes, help to naturally replenish soil nitrogen levels, reducing the need for chemical fertilisers in the long term.

Challenges and Mitigation Strategies

Despite the potential benefits of the fertiliser plan, there are several challenges that could affect its success. One of the main challenges is the high cost of fertiliser, even with subsidies, which could limit access for some farmers. The government is working to address this issue by negotiating with fertiliser manufacturers to reduce prices further and ensure that the subsidised fertilisers remain affordable.

Another challenge is the timely distribution of fertilisers. In the past, delays in fertiliser delivery have negatively impacted planting seasons, leading to reduced yields. To mitigate this risk, the government has put in place a robust distribution network that includes both public and private sector players. This network is designed to ensure that fertilisers are delivered to farmers well before the onset of the planting season.

Additionally, there is a need to address the issue of fertiliser misuse, which can lead to soil degradation and reduced productivity over time. To counter this, the government and its partners are investing in farmer education programmes that emphasise the importance of proper fertiliser application and soil testing.

Long-Term Sustainability

The fertiliser plan is part of a long-term strategy to make Kenya self-sufficient in maize seed production. By enhancing seed production capacity in Trans Nzoia, the government aims to reduce reliance on imported seeds, which are often expensive and may not be well-suited to local conditions.

To ensure the sustainability of the programme, the government is also encouraging the establishment of local fertiliser manufacturing plants. This move is expected to reduce the country’s dependence on imported fertilisers and create jobs in the local manufacturing sector.

In the long run, the fertiliser plan will also contribute to the government’s broader food security agenda, which includes increasing maize production to meet the growing demand for staple foods. By boosting maize seed production, the plan is laying the foundation for higher maize yields across the country, which will help to stabilise food prices and ensure that all Kenyans have access to affordable, nutritious food.

Conclusion

The fertiliser plan to boost maize seed production in Trans Nzoia is a critical step towards improving agricultural productivity and food security in Kenya. By providing farmers with affordable, high-quality fertilisers, the government is helping to address the challenges that have historically hindered maize production in the country. With the support of strategic partnerships, sustainable farming practices, and a focus on long-term solutions, the programme is poised to make a lasting impact on Kenya’s maize seed production and overall agricultural sector.

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The government’s move comes amid rising concerns about the availability and affordability of maize flour, a staple food for many Kenyans. Officials have cited several reasons for the importation, including the need to stabilize prices and ensure a steady supply in the face of potential future shortages. However, many farmers and agricultural experts are baffled by this decision, given that the current harvest has exceeded expectations.

The Ministry of Agriculture has indicated that the anticipated imports will help buffer against unforeseen circumstances such as pests, disease, or erratic weather patterns that could jeopardize future yields. Additionally, the government is concerned about maintaining a price equilibrium that supports both consumers and producers. However, critics argue that importing maize undermines local farmers who have invested significant resources into cultivating their crops.

Farmers across the country have expressed frustration over the government’s decision, feeling it sends mixed signals about the administration’s commitment to supporting local agriculture. Many had anticipated that the bumper harvest would lead to increased demand for their produce, which would in turn allow them to recover their investments. Instead, the looming imports have cast a shadow over their expectations.

Moreover, agricultural analysts are warning that relying on imports could have long-term implications for Kenya’s food sovereignty. They argue that consistent importation might create a dependency that could hurt local agricultural initiatives and discourage investment in domestic production. With the right support, Kenyan farmers have the potential to not only meet local demand but also contribute to export markets.

In light of these developments, the government is urged to consider strategies that promote the sustainable growth of the agricultural sector. This could include better access to financing for farmers, improved agricultural practices, and investment in infrastructure to enhance market access for local produce.

Furthermore, stakeholders are calling for transparency in the importation process, emphasizing the importance of understanding the reasons behind the decision and ensuring that it does not disrupt local markets. The government has a responsibility to strike a balance between ensuring food security and supporting local agricultural producers.

As the situation unfolds, many are watching closely to see how this decision will impact both the agricultural sector and consumers in the coming months. With maize being a staple in the Kenyan diet, any fluctuations in supply and price are likely to resonate widely.

In conclusion, while the government’s intent to import maize may be rooted in concerns for future food security, it is crucial to consider the ramifications for local farmers and the agricultural sector as a whole. A concerted effort to enhance local production capabilities should be a priority, ensuring that Kenya not only meets its current food needs but also builds a resilient agricultural system for the future.

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During a recent inspection of the NCPB Eldoret Depot, Principal Secretary for Agriculture, Dr. Kipronoh Rono, offered reassurance to farmers and stakeholders about the readiness of the board to manage the new harvest. Dr. Rono encouraged farmers to sell their maize from the previous season to the board, emphasizing the importance of clearing space for the anticipated influx of new produce. In a move aimed at facilitating this transition, the NCPB has been instructed to sell off the maize currently in storage.

As part of the government’s commitment to supporting farmers, Dr. Rono announced that tenders for fertilizer suppliers are currently under evaluation. The Ministry of Agriculture is working diligently to select vendors who can provide high-quality fertilizers and seeds. “The government has arranged for fertilizers and seeds to be available in every store across the country from November,” Dr. Rono stated. This initiative aims to ensure that farmers have easy access to essential agricultural inputs during the crucial planting period.

In a bid to streamline the distribution process, the Ministry plans to offer fertilizers and seeds at one-stop shops, making it more convenient for farmers to procure these resources. The subsidized price of Ksh 2,500 per 50kg bag of fertilizer will continue to apply, providing much-needed financial relief to farmers.

Dr. Rono highlighted the significant role of Uasin Gishu County in maize production, noting that farmers in the region had already received close to 100,000 bags of fertilizer during the short rainy season. This substantial support underscores the government’s recognition of the county’s contributions to the national food security effort. Additionally, the government has purchased 700,000 bags of maize from Uasin Gishu, paying farmers Ksh 1.5 billion. Further payments are planned before the end of the year to ensure that farmers are adequately compensated for their produce.

The scale of maize production this year has reached new heights, with a record 70 million 90kg bags expected. Dr. Rono expressed optimism about the potential impact of this harvest on alleviating hunger across the country. The substantial maize supply is anticipated to play a crucial role in addressing food security challenges.

To combat post-harvest losses, the government has introduced 20 dryers to assist farmers with the drying process. These dryers are intended to help preserve the quality of the maize and reduce wastage, ensuring that more of the harvest reaches consumers in optimal condition.

In addition to maize and fertilizer support, the government has initiated the distribution of sunflower seeds to 41 counties. Uasin Gishu County will receive 20,000 kilos of sunflower seeds, providing farmers with additional opportunities to diversify their crops and enhance their income.

Dr. Rono encouraged farmers to collect sunflower seeds after harvesting their maize, emphasizing the potential benefits of incorporating sunflower cultivation into their agricultural practices. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote crop diversification and improve overall agricultural productivity.

As the new season approaches, the NCPB’s readiness to manage maize and fertilizer storage reflects the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and ensuring food security. With these measures in place, stakeholders can look forward to a productive and successful agricultural season.

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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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Speaking during an inspection tour of Agricultural Development Corporation (ADC) and Kenya Seed Company (KSC) farms in Trans Nzoia, Dr. Karanja expressed optimism about the bumper harvest. “I am really happy that compared to last season where we managed between 40 and 60 million bags, this year’s crop is more promising and 70 million bags of 90 kg are expected to be harvested,” he stated. This increase signals a major stride towards food security in the country.

The Agriculture CS highlighted that the good rains and the strategic distribution of subsidized fertilizers by the government have significantly boosted maize production. The increased acreage under maize cultivation, supported by these interventions, is set to help the country meet its food demand and stabilize maize prices, which have been volatile in recent years due to fluctuating production levels.

Dr. Karanja commended the efforts of the ADC and KSC, acknowledging their pivotal roles in driving agricultural productivity. He noted that both institutions have effectively collaborated with other stakeholders to enhance maize production and seed availability in Kenya. “As the government, we will offer the necessary support to KSC and ADC to ensure they discharge their mandate in the agricultural sector,” he added.

Supporting Farmers for Sustained Productivity

The Agriculture CS underscored the importance of supporting farmers to maintain high productivity levels. He announced that the government would continue to supply subsidized fertilizer to farmers at a cost of Sh2,500 per 50 kg bag, a move aimed at reducing input costs and encouraging farmers to expand their maize acreage further. This initiative is expected to sustain the positive trend in maize production, positioning Kenya as a maize surplus nation.

Dr. Karanja praised the dedication of Kenyan farmers, acknowledging their hard work and resilience in producing food for the country. He emphasized that the projected bumper harvest is a testament to the collective efforts of farmers, government bodies, and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector. “The good production is an indicator that the country is now food secure,” he said, highlighting the broader implications of the increased maize output on national food security.

Ensuring Seed Availability for Future Planting Seasons

In addition to the expected maize harvest, the Kenya Seed Company is projected to produce 70 million kilos of seed maize in preparation for the next planting season. This will ensure that farmers across the country have access to high-quality seeds, a critical factor in achieving high yields. ADC, a major contracted seed grower, is also expected to contribute 10 million kilos of seed maize this season, according to Managing Director Wilson Tonui.

The government is keen on preventing seed shortages, which have previously affected farmers, particularly in the North Rift region. Earlier this year, the Kenya Seed Company faced a shortage of certain seed varieties, which disrupted planting schedules for many farmers. To mitigate such challenges, Dr. Karanja assured that measures are being put in place to guarantee a steady supply of seeds to farmers in all parts of the country.

During the inspection tour, Dr. Karanja was accompanied by Kenya Seed Company Chairperson Purity Ngirici, the firm’s CEO Sammy Chepsiror, and National Assembly Agriculture Committee member Ferdinand Wanyonyi. They reiterated their commitment to enhancing farmer engagement and increasing productivity of key crops through continued support and collaboration.

Looking ahead, Dr. Karanja emphasized the government’s commitment to boosting agricultural productivity and ensuring that Kenya remains food secure. “We will enhance our engagement with farmers so that we can achieve increased productivity, especially for major crops,” he concluded, signaling a proactive approach towards sustainable agricultural development in Kenya.

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Speaking at Lulu Farm in Trans Nzoia County, the Principal Secretary (PS) for the State Department of Agriculture, Dr. Paul Ronoh, praised the government’s fertiliser subsidy initiative for its critical role in boosting agricultural productivity. Dr. Ronoh urged farmers to fully embrace the government’s agricultural support programmes, especially the fertiliser subsidies, which he noted have led to a marked increase in crop yields.

Record Increases in Maize Production

The fertiliser subsidy programme, introduced two years ago, has already shown remarkable results. Dr. Ronoh revealed that maize seed growers contracted by the Kenya Seed Company have seen an impressive surge in productivity, more than doubling their harvest compared to last year. “The seed growers contracted by Kenya Seed Company have managed to increase their production of maize seed from 27 million kilogrammes last year to 70 million kilogrammes this year,” he said. “This increased productivity can be attributed to several factors, but one which stands out is the government’s fertiliser subsidy programme.”

Over the past two years, the government has distributed more than 25 million bags of fertiliser, tailored to specific crops and regions, to approximately 15 million farmers. This targeted approach has allowed farmers to maximise productivity, leading to the anticipated bumper harvest this year.

Preparations to Handle Increased Yield

With the projected increase in maize production, Dr. Ronoh stated that plans are underway to ensure that National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) stores are prepared to receive the excess produce from farmers. He highlighted the government’s commitment to mitigating post-harvest losses by distributing 100 mobile driers across the country, 15 of which have been allocated to Trans Nzoia County. Additionally, the government plans to supply 230 smaller driers to further support farmers.

“May I give an assurance to farmers who have harvested excess maize and may find challenges to market their produce that the national government has put in place strategies to procure excess of their produce,” he said. This move is expected to stabilise maize prices and prevent market oversaturation, benefiting both farmers and consumers.

Ensuring Quality and Mitigating Challenges

To support continued growth in maize production, the government has implemented measures to ensure that only certified seeds are available in the market. During a visit to the Kenya Seed Driers Complex in Kitale, Dr. Ronoh emphasised that loopholes previously exploited by brokers to supply fake maize seeds and other farm inputs have been closed. “We have enough certified-quality maize seeds for long and short seasons. Certified seeds for long rains will be distributed early in November for the next planting season,” he assured, adding that inspection teams will be deployed to monitor the quality of fertilisers and oversee distribution.

Despite these positive developments, the PS acknowledged the challenge of maize crop theft faced by Kenya Seed and Agricultural Development Corporation (ADC) farms. However, he expressed confidence that, with the help of the national administration, effective strategies have been implemented to combat this issue, warning that those found guilty will face prosecution.

Diversifying Crop Production

Dr. Ronoh also encouraged farmers to diversify their crop production by planting sunflowers, particularly after the maize harvest, to ensure that their farms remain productive throughout the year. This suggestion aligns with broader government efforts to promote sustainable agricultural practices and enhance food security.

Looking Ahead

As the fertiliser subsidy programme continues to demonstrate its value, the government remains committed to supporting Kenyan farmers and ensuring that the country moves closer to achieving food self-sufficiency. With increased productivity and strategic measures in place to handle the surplus, Kenya is poised for a fruitful harvest season that could set a new benchmark in agricultural production.

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Rationale Behind the Bill

The bill’s primary objective is to stabilize the prices of essential goods, which are critical for the daily survival of many Kenyans. By setting maximum and minimum prices, the government aims to protect consumers from sudden price hikes that could erode their purchasing power. This is particularly important for low-income households, who are often the most vulnerable to inflation and other economic shocks.

Moreover, the bill seeks to prevent monopolistic practices that can lead to price manipulation. In markets where a few players dominate, prices can be artificially inflated, leaving consumers with no choice but to pay more. The proposed legislation would ensure that essential goods remain affordable, even in the face of natural disasters, public health emergencies, or other crises that could disrupt supply chains.

Powers Granted to the Treasury CS

Under the proposed law, the Treasury Cabinet Secretary would have the authority to declare any good as an essential commodity and set the applicable price range. This power extends to determining the duration during which these prices would apply, as well as identifying specific categories of people or regions to which these prices would be enforced.

However, the bill also requires the CS to consult with key stakeholders, including farmers, manufacturers, and retailers, before setting prices. This is a crucial step in ensuring that the prices set are fair and reflective of the realities on the ground. The CS must consider various factors, including normal market conditions, the significance of the goods in question, and the potential impact on competitiveness in the local market. Additionally, the CS must assess environmental and health requirements in the production and use of these goods, the public’s purchasing power, and whether alternative products are available.

Enforcement and Compliance

To enforce compliance with the new price controls, the bill proposes the establishment of a Price Control Unit within the Treasury. This unit, led by a Director of Price Control, would be responsible for monitoring prices, preventing market manipulation, and making recommendations based on market trends and consumer needs. The unit would also be tasked with educating the public about the new policies and their implications, as well as preparing quarterly reports to assess the effectiveness of the price controls.

Potential Challenges and Criticisms

While the bill aims to protect consumers, critics argue that fixed prices could have unintended consequences. For instance, producers might be forced to cut costs, leading to a decline in the quality of goods. Additionally, if businesses are unable to cover their costs due to price caps, they may be discouraged from investing in the production of essential goods, potentially leading to shortages.

Furthermore, price controls that do not align with market demands could hinder innovation and improvement in product quality. Farmers and manufacturers may find little incentive to enhance their goods if they cannot command higher prices for superior products. As a result, the government would need to carefully balance the benefits of price controls with the potential risks of market distortions.

Conclusion

The Price Control (Essential Goods) (Amendment) Bill, 2024, represents a bold move by the Kenyan government to protect its citizens from the adverse effects of price volatility. However, its implementation will require careful consideration to avoid unintended negative consequences on the market. Achieving the right balance between stabilizing prices and maintaining a competitive, innovation-driven market will be key to the bill’s success.

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The highest wholesale prices were reported in Bomet, Busia, and Kwale, where a 90kg bag of maize was sold for Sh4,500. Conversely, the lowest prices were observed in Trans Nzoia and Uasin Gishu counties, where a 90kg bag was priced at Sh2,500.

“The decline in prices is attributed to good maize production in 2023. By the end of the month of June, the average retail price of a two-kilo packet of unga was Sh129 in supermarkets in Nairobi,” the report noted.

Surplus and Market Stability

The maize balance sheet projected to the end of September 2024 indicates a surplus of approximately 28.3 million 50kg bags. This projection is based on carryover stocks of 35.2 million bags in June and an estimated 1.35 million bags as forecast imports over the next three months. The report also highlights that about 20.5 million bags planted early in January will be harvested from low-altitude counties, including Bomet, parts of Narok, Nyamira, and parts of Migori.

“The improved crops production in 2023 and improved local supplies of most food staples continue to impact the importation of most basic staples, with a general declining trend since January 2024,” the report states.

Decline in Maize Imports

The total imports of maize have been on a decreasing trend since March 2024. In June, maize imports decreased further from 516,151 (50kg) bags in May to 389,778 bags, compared to 633,555 bags imported in March. The majority of these imports came from Tanzania, with considerable amounts also sourced from Uganda. Notably, between January to June 2023, a total of 7.9 million bags had been imported. However, for the same period in 2024, only 2.5 million bags were imported, indicating the government’s goal of reducing import dependencies is being achieved if the trend continues.

Improved Food Security

National food security improved significantly in June as most staple foods were available in both households and markets. The report highlights that the prices of basic staples, especially cereals and pulses, continued to decline in June as farmers released their stockpiled supplies into the market, driven by lower prices compared to last year. This was primarily due to the decreased prices of cereals, pulses, roots, and tubers. However, prices for some commodities like cabbage, spinach, and kale (sukuma wiki) saw a slight increase in June compared to May.

Crop Conditions and Harvesting

In June, long rains seasonal crops were at reproductive stages to maturity across all counties. The consumption of green maize increased in Nyanza and eastern regions, while harvesting continued for pulses, thereby improving household food security. However, southeastern lowlands and coastal regions experienced a dry spell after early cessation of rains, which forced crops to mature faster, and in some cases, dry up. Despite these challenges, crop conditions were generally good in other parts of the country. Efforts to control fall armyworm continued in areas where maize crops were in the late vegetative stages.

In conclusion, the significant drop in maize prices in June 2024, driven by higher production and favorable market conditions, has positively impacted food security in Kenya. With a projected surplus and a decline in maize imports, the country’s agricultural sector is showing promising signs of stability and growth.

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Maize, known for its high energy content, can be a valuable choice for livestock feed, particularly in regions where it thrives well and where grain production is also a priority. Maize silage offers a concentrated feed source rich in carbohydrates, which is beneficial for milk production in dairy cattle and for fattening livestock.

On the other hand, napier grass, a perennial tropical grass, is prized for its ability to grow rapidly and provide consistent fodder throughout the year. It is especially suitable for areas with variable rainfall and where soil fertility may be a concern, as it has good drought tolerance and can thrive in less fertile soils. Napier grass is known for its high fiber content, which aids in digestion and can contribute to the overall health and productivity of livestock, particularly in ruminants.

The decision between maize and napier grass should also consider factors such as land availability, climate suitability, labor requirements, and market demands. Maize production requires intensive inputs such as fertilizers and pesticides, whereas napier grass is generally less input-intensive once established. Additionally, market dynamics and local preferences for livestock products can influence which fodder option offers better economic returns.

Ultimately, the choice between maize and napier grass should be informed by a farmer’s specific circumstances, goals, and resources, aiming to optimize both livestock nutrition and farm profitability in the long term.

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