Maize Prices Surge in North Rift as Farmers Hold Onto Stocks
Maize prices in the North Rift have surged in recent weeks due to dwindling supplies at the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) and farmers’ reluctance to sell.
Middlemen have increased prices to as high as Sh3,700 per 90kg bag, surpassing the NCPB’s offer of Sh3,500. Millers and traders predict that the cost could exceed Sh4,000 within a month.
Despite NCPB depots opening more than a month ago, farmers have largely withheld their produce due to concerns over delayed payments.
Maize dealer James Kosgey warned of an impending shortage, stating, “Supply is low, and some farmers are holding onto their stocks, hoping for even higher prices.”
Just two weeks ago, maize was selling at Sh3,400 per 90kg bag in Eldoret, but prices have risen sharply.
Farmers' representatives, led by Kipkorir Menjo, confirmed that payment delays have discouraged many from selling to the board. NCPB Acting CEO Samwel Karogoh assured farmers that depots remain open and ready to receive maize, with an initial target of 800,000 bags.
Meanwhile, large-scale farmers argue that even with subsidized fertilizer, current prices are not profitable. Thomas Korgoren, a farmer, said they need at least Sh5,000 per bag to sustain their operations.
As farmers hold back their stocks, NCPB is now shifting focus to the distribution of subsidized fertilizer ahead of the upcoming planting season.