Govt sets aside Ksh 1.7B to buy local maize as strategic reserves expand

Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture Sen. Mutahi Kagwe said the State has set aside Ksh 1.7 billion for immediate procurement, targeting an initial 1.7 million bags for the Strategic Grain Reserve.

“We are buying maize at Ksh 4,000 per bag, and we have Ksh 1.7 billion to pay. If anyone tells you to wait, call me. As a country, we must stock our strategic reserves and be ready for emergencies. Our first option is not to import; it is to buy from our farmers,” he said.

The CS added that the long-term target is to build reserves to four million bags, emphasising that local procurement supports farmers while enhancing national preparedness.

At the same time, the government is improving production and storage systems to protect quality and minimise losses, including better drying infrastructure and increased access to fertiliser.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki said the country’s food situation is being managed through coordinated national planning.

“During the holiday season, I spent some time with the National Treasury and the Ministry responsible for special programs. There is an intervention that has already been done… bringing the Kenyan government’s contribution in the last month or so on this issue to Ksh 6 billion,” he said while chairing a high-level meeting at his residence recently.

He noted that the government has committed to sustained funding.

“Kenya has already committed Ksh 4 billion every 30 days and will review the situation based on the information we receive.”

The CS added that local rice and wheat production are also being prioritised, with policies ensuring domestic produce is utilised before imports are considered.