State mulls importing animal feed to ease pressure on maize supplies

National Cereals and Produce Board Stores Clerk James Oriku inside the Maralal with a sample of maize grains. Samburu County governor Moses Lenolkulal rejected the maize saying they were found to be unfit for human consumption following a report by Polucon Services Company whereas NCPB authorities say they are fit.PHOTO: MICHAEL SAITOTI.

The Government might be forced to import animal feed to cushion the country against a possible maize crisis as manufacturers compete for dwindling reserves of the commodity.

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Willy Bett said the ministry is seriously considering the move to ease pressure on the country’s maize supplies, with animal feed manufacturers, who use maize as a raw material, said to be starving the market of the commodity for human consumption.