Maize shortage sparks alarm as prices hit record high

Maize, a staple food, has seen a 45% price surge since January, reaching KES 4,800 per bag, with projections of KES 5,500 by April.

This spike is straining household budgets and threatening food security.

The maize shortage is driving up costs, affecting both consumers and the livestock sector. Poultry farmers, in particular, are struggling with expensive feed, which is pushing up chicken and egg prices.

The Association of Kenya Feed Manufacturers (AKAFEMA) warns that ugali, a daily staple, could soon be out of reach for many Kenyans.

Industry leaders, including the Poultry Breeders Association of Kenya (PBAK) and AKAFEMA, are urging the government to act immediately.

Their primary demand is a waiver on maize import duties to stabilize prices and ensure availability. Without swift intervention, more Kenyans will face food insecurity, and economic instability will deepen.

AKAFEMA Chairman Joseph Karuri identifies several causes for the crisis, including poor weather, reduced harvests, and disrupted regional supply chains.

"If maize prices continue to rise, unga will become unaffordable for many households," he says. The rising cost of animal feed is also hurting livestock farmers, resulting in higher prices for meat, poultry, and dairy products.

Both organizations emphasize that raising maize import taxes is an important short-term solution.

This would alleviate food price pressures and help livestock farmers survive.

They are requesting immediate discussions with government officials to implement this measure and explore long-term food security strategies.