NCPB to buy 50kg bulk maize from farmers at Sh2,200

The National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) has announced that it will buy bulk maize from farmers at Sh2,200 per 50kg on the day that President William Ruto delivered his first State of The Nation Address amid Kenyans struggling with the high cost of living.

Bagged maize for the same weight will be bought from farmers at a cost of Sh2,525.

In an internal memo directed to all regional managers, depot/silo managers and regional accountants, NCPB said the new prices will take effect from 10 November 2023.

During his address to both Houses of Parliament on Thursday, the President said the government had increased maize acreage under production by an extra 200,000 acres and enhanced maize production by an additional 18 million bags.

"As a result of these interventions, today a 2kg packet of maize flour is selling at a low of Sh145 and a high of Sh175 depending on the brand down from Sh250. A gorogoro of maize is selling between Sh60 and Sh75," Ruto said.

Maize drying services

The President also said the NCPB will provide a subsidised maize drying service to farmers at a fixed cost of Sh70 per bag.

"This is a significant improvement from the previous rate of Sh350 per bag. On Wednesday, the first consignment of the 100 mobile driers for use by our farmers docked in the country," he said.

The NCPB last month said it is prepared to stock up to 20 million bags of maize in its depots this year.

NCPB CEO Joseph Kimote said the board will purchase maize directly from farmers once the government announces the prices.

He said purchases will be done on a first come first serve basis.