In a decisive move to stabilize maize flour prices and avert an impending shortage, the government has released an initial batch of 200,000 bags of maize from the National Strategic Grain Reserve (NSR) to registered millers across the country.
The maize, managed by the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB), is being distributed in 90-kilogram bags at a subsidized price of Ksh 4,250 per bag. This release comes as part of the government’s broader strategy to cushion Kenyan households from rising food costs and ensure food security.
Distribution of the first consignment is underway, with select depots in the North and South Rift regions — notably Eldoret and Moi’s Bridge — serving as the main collection points. Registered millers have begun collecting their allocations following the commencement of payment processing on Thursday, May 22.
To qualify for the subsidized maize, millers must meet a set of criteria including declaration of milling capacity, presentation of a certificate of incorporation, a valid tax compliance certificate, and a KEBS (Kenya Bureau of Standards) quality certification.
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In a bid to curb hoarding and ensure timely flour production, millers are required to make an upfront payment of 25% of their total maize allocation. They must also provide proof of flour milling and distribution before being allowed to access the remaining 75% of their allocation. A maize utilization report is mandatory before final payments are accepted.
“All millers are expected to promptly collect their consignments upon payment and begin immediate milling and distribution to ensure the intended impact is felt across the supply chain,” said Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Sen. Mutahi Kagwe.
The Ministry expects the subsidy program to exert downward pressure on maize flour prices, which have shown volatility in recent months due to adverse weather and supply chain disruptions.
With flour prices being a key driver of the cost of living for millions of Kenyan households, the government has reiterated its commitment to deploying strategic reserves in a targeted and transparent manner to safeguard national food security.
