Farmers contemplate abandoning maize as DP Ruto insists on diversification

Deputy president William Ruto (center) with Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui (left) and Sawela Lodges Managing Director Peter Gitau during the Nakuru Nakuru International investment conference at Naivasha in Nakuru county on November 30,2018. [Kipsang Joseph/Standard]

The Sh2,300 price for a 90kg bag of maize declared by the government has left North Rift farmers contemplating abandoning the country’s staple grain, a move that could further strain Kenya’s ability to feed herself.

Lack of subsidies, false promises by the national government and unscrupulous traders have all conspired to keep a stranglehold on farmers incur losses as a result of high production prices.