Empty plates as maize prices rise 80pc in drought-hit regions

Maize farmers park their produce in bags after drying them for sale. [File, Standard]

Maize prices in arid and semi-arid lands (ASAL) have risen to record highs even as the regions contend with a debilitating drought and the effects of Covid-19.

According to Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), maize prices in ASALs have risen 80 per cent to Sh4,500 per 90kg bag, up from Sh2,500 per bag amid a supply crisis due to the ongoing drought in many parts of the country.