Nairobi: The Government has issued a 30-day ultimatum to traders hoarding maize, demanding that they release their stocks to the market. Agriculture and Livestock Production Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mutahi Kagwe warned that failure to comply would result in a significant importation of duty-free maize to stabilize the supply and prices of this essential commodity in the country.

According to Kenya News Agency, Kagwe emphasized that the Government's primary focus is to procure locally produced maize to bolster the Strategic Food Reserve. To this end, Sh1.7 billion has been allocated for purchasing 1.7 million bags at a rate of Sh4,000 per bag. However, only 186,000 bags have been delivered so far, a shortage attributed to hoarding and market speculation.

Kagwe also announced initiatives aimed at reducing post-harvest losses and minimizing aflatoxin risks. The Government is redeploying maize dryers to high-production areas and allowing farmers to use National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) facilities for drying maize at a minimal cost. Additionally, millers will be allowed to lease dryers to decrease the rejection rate of local maize.

Furthermore, the CS highlighted that maize production significantly increased after the distribution of 9.1 million bags of subsidized fertilizer during the 2025 season. To enhance last-mile fertilizer access, counties will now register agro-dealers. An instant payment system for these dealers is being developed in collaboration with the National Treasury, World Bank, and commercial banks.

Regarding rice and wheat, Kagwe reiterated that locally produced grain must be utilized before any imports are considered. He noted that Kenya currently produces about 20 percent of its rice and 10 percent of its wheat requirements, stressing the importance of boosting domestic production.

Additionally, the Government is launching a nationwide soil mapping initiative to guide crop-specific fertilizer use. NCPB has been directed to urgently address system inefficiencies that are slowing down grain intake. 'Food security is not optional. We must produce, store, and market our food responsibly,' affirmed the CS.