Government begins releasing NCPB maize to stabilise flour prices
Kagwe says the first batch will be distributed through selected deports in the North and South Rift regions
The government has released the first batch of 200,000 bags of maize from the National Strategic Grain Reserves (NSR) to registered millers to help stabilise flour prices and curb a potential shortage.
In a statement, Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe said the stocks held by the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) will be allocated to miller associations and individual millers in 90 kg bags at a subsidised rate of Ksh 4,250.
He added that the first batch will be distributed through selected deports in the North and South Rift regions.
“To be considered for allocation, millers will be required to indicate their milling capacity, present a certificate of incorporation, a tax compliance certificate and a KEBS quality certificate,” Kagwe said.
He said that NCPB started receiving payments on Thursday last week with sales and collections expected to increase today (Monday), adding that the subsidy is expected to stabilise maize and maize flour prices, cushioning Kenyans from any price spikes.
“To deter stock hoarding, millers allocated NSR maize are required to make an initial payment for 25% of their total allocation and provide proof of milling and distribution of flour before the full allocation is allowed. They must also provide a maize utilisation report before the payment for 75% is accepted,” the CS said.
He added that upon payment for their maize allocations, all millers are expected to immediately collect their consignments, begin milling and distribute the flour.
According to Kagwe, millers are already collecting the maize from NCPB outlets across the country, mainly Eldoret and Moi’s Bridge.
