President William Ruto has banned the importation of maize and wheat into the country in a move that the government says is aimed at protecting local farmers from losses.
The Head of State, in a statement said that no permits will be issued to millers to import wheat or maize into the country.
Speaking after a meeting with leaders from Narok North constituency at State House, Ruto said that the importation of additional wheat and maize into the country would jeopardise local farmers.
He added that the government will only deviate from the directive if the local produce is insufficient.
“No permits will be issued to millers to import wheat or maize into the country. We must protect our local farmers,” Ruto said.
The President further pointed out that the government will allocate Sh4 billion to buy maize from farmers. The Head of State maintained that the move is aimed at stabilising prices.
He was speaking on Thursday at State House, Nairobi, when he met a delegation from Narok North Constituency led by its MP Agnes Pareiyo.
Also, in the meeting were Governors Patrick Ole Ntutu (Narok) and Jonathan Leleliit (Samburu), Narok West MP Gabriel Tongoyo, MCAs and grassroots leaders.
“We ask our farmers not to sell their produce at throw-away prices,” Ruto said.
To reduce post-harvest losses over high moisture, the Head of State announced that National Cereals and Produce Board driers will be used to dry farmers maize at a minimal fee of Sh50. This is from a high of nearly Sh400 a 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,” Ruto said.
The President said a KCC milk plant will be constructed in Narok to improve milk quality and thus boost prices.
Email your news TIPS to Editor@nairobilawmonthly.com, and to advertise with us, call +254715061658 anytime of the day
