End distortions in maize market

An attempt by the Government to make maize flour affordable to the poor was a good gesture. But the project seems to have collapsed even before take off.

The plan to intervene through the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB), in collaboration with private millers, to produce subsidised maize has come a cropper. Last week’s announcement that the price of a two kilogramme packet of maize flour had shot up from Sh72 to Sh110 has dealt a big blow to the project. However, the big question remains: Were Agriculture Minister William Ruto and Prime Minister Raila Odinga serious when they pledged affordable flour for the poor and vulnerable groups?