Cut out unnecessary waste in maize supply

Given the raging controversy surrounding the Government’s scheme to pay private millers to mill and package subsidised maize flour, it is clear a new approach to the food crisis is required.

Significant amounts of money, released from public coffers, are being used up in purchases of maize at Sh1,750 a bag, if bought locally, and more if imported and channelled through Kenya’s only bulk grain terminal. More money, Sh200 a bag, is paid to millers to prepare and package sifted flour for retail sales. Even more is lost as millers keep byproducts such as bran and husks.