Kenyans To Expect Increased Prices Of Maize And Wheat Flour

Traders under the East African Grain Council (EAGC) warn that maize production in the region is in danger, citing reduced acreage and emerging pests.

According to Gerald Masila, executive director of the EAGC, the region is coping with the massive impact of the extended drought, which has resulted in increased food costs, further reducing consumers' purchasing power.

He says that the price of a 90-kilogram bag of white maize has risen by around 20% to around Sh 4,300, up from around Sh 3,600 in January.

According to a survey of local retail stores, leading maize flour brands are selling for more than Sh130 for a 2kg packet, with millers predicting that prices will rise to more than Sh140 in the next two weeks. It was also discovered that all 2-kg packets of major wheat flour brands cost more than Sh160.

Masila believes the government should assist value chains in searching for new markets. He also rejected reports that farmers are stockpiling maize, driving up prices in the local market.

"Maize stocks in the region are insufficient and costly," he said.

The executive director further stated that regional partners such as Uganda, Tanzania, and Ethiopia are expected to begin harvesting by the end of June, with stock likely to arrive in Kenya by the end of July and August.

"We expect maize from Uganda and Tanzania in July and August, but this may not be enough to keep the market going until the big crop harvest in October, November, and December," said Masila.

According to him, maize inflows from the region would enter the local market at a time when maize prices are still high, and the maize will be swept away quickly owing to the impending shortage.