Kenya’s state-run National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) has set the price for a 90-kilogram bag of maize at KSh 4,000, (US$31) a move that has drawn mixed reactions from farmers and consumers across the country.
The NCPB, responsible for national food security, announced the price on its social media channels and confirmed that farmers supplying maize to its depots in Eldoret and other towns would receive instant payments, with no expected delays.
Despite these assurances, the announcement has triggered criticism on social media, with many Kenyans and farmers expressing dissatisfaction over what they perceive as a low purchase price amid rising production costs and inflation. Some users questioned whether the rate adequately compensates smallholder farmers, while others highlighted the gap between market and NCPB prices in local towns and informal markets.
The NCPB’s statement did not indicate any immediate plans to adjust the price or introduce regional variations. It emphasised that the measure forms part of ongoing efforts to stabilise the maize market, secure food supplies, and support farmers’ incomes through guaranteed purchases.
Maize is Kenya’s staple crop, and prices of the cereal often have wide-reaching effects on household food security and inflation trends. The NCPB frequently sets procurement prices to stabilise supply and prevent excessive market volatility, particularly in lean seasons.
Economists said that while government procurement at fixed prices helps ensure food availability, setting prices too low could discourage farmers from selling to official depots, potentially increasing reliance on private traders or cross-border markets.
The announcement comes ahead of the peak harvest season, when Kenya typically sees the largest volume of maize entering the market. Analysts say balancing the needs of farmers, consumers, and national food security remains a key challenge for the NCPB and the Ministry of Agriculture.
Farmers are encouraged to deliver maize to authorised depots for prompt payment, while the NCPB continues to monitor supplies to maintain national stock levels.
