Trans Nzoia MPs say Sh2,500 for a bag of maize is too low.
By David Musundi, October 5, 2020
Members of Parliament(MPs) from Trans Nzoia have demanded an increase of maize prices to Sh3,500 and not the Sh2,500 announced by President Uhuru Kenyatta.
The MPs from the rich maize growing zone said the government’s offer of Sh2,500 was far below the production cost.
Led by Kiminini MP Dr. Chris Wamalwa, they said many farmers were greatly disappointed by the price set by the government, wondering why the government would import maize from Mexico at Sh4,000 leaving Kenyan farmers who toil hard to receive Sh2,500.
“My appeal to the government is to give more money to the National cereals and produce board to be able to buy maize at Sh3,500 to cushion our farming community in the North Rift from heavy expenses incurred: We as leaders from this region suggest that next time farmers be allowed to participate in reaching such decisions,” Said Wamalwa in Kesogon in Cherangany sub-county.
The MP asked for the intervention of the President towards reviewing the prices.
He challenged contractors to complete several roads that have stalled to enable farmers to access markets for their produce.
Additional Reporting by Njange Maina