MPs warn of huge losses at NCPB, raise alarm over Kenya’s food security
Among the worst financial mistakes highlighted was a disputed maize procurement contract that ended in arbitration, resulting in huge losses, with several related bills still unpaid.
The National Assembly’s Public Investments Committee on Social Services, Administration and Agriculture (PIC-SSAA) has sounded the alarm over massive financial losses at the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB), warning that mismanagement at the state agency could threaten Kenya’s food security.
During a committee session chaired by Navakholo MP Emmanuel Wangwe, members examined a recent Auditor-General’s report, which revealed billions of shillings in unsupported expenses, disputed contracts, and unverified assets.
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The audit flagged over Sh2 billion in undocumented spending for the 2017/2018 financial year.
It also exposed unclear ownership of storage facilities and land parcels valued at more than Sh54 million, procurement failures, and assets recorded at incorrect values.
“These are not just bookkeeping errors. They point to systemic weaknesses that have left the Board vulnerable to abuse,” said MP Kosgei (Nominated). “If public resources are not safeguarded, Kenya’s food security is directly endangered.”
Among the worst financial mistakes highlighted was a disputed maize procurement contract that ended in arbitration, resulting in huge losses, with several related bills still unpaid.
The report further revealed grain shortages, poor verification of sources, and lapses in quality control.
The NCPB is also struggling under a mountain of debts owed to maize farmers, fertiliser suppliers, and the Kenya Revenue Authority, some dating back more than 20 years, while accrued penalties remain unrecorded.
Compounding the problem, the government owes the Board large sums that have remained unsettled for nearly two decades.
“The situation has reached a point where farmers who delivered maize years ago are still waiting for payment. This is unacceptable,” Wangwe told the committee.
The audit pointed to weak oversight, noting that Agriculture Ministry officials were absent during key physical stock checks.
Challenges intensified when the Strategic Food Reserve Board was dissolved, and its functions were transferred to the NCPB without sufficient funding or institutional support.
“The Board is expected to guarantee national food security, yet maize is rotting in silos due to prolonged storage and poor planning,” said Ndhiwa MP Owino. “This is a betrayal of farmers and consumers alike.”
The committee is now pushing for swift reforms at the NCPB, calling for stronger financial controls, clear governance structures, and decisive leadership. MPs also urged the Agriculture Ministry to ensure proper oversight and timely payment of government obligations to the Board.
“The Kenyan people deserve better. The time for excuses is over. We want action, not promises,” Wangwe emphasised.
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