The government has released 200,000 bags of maize to millers to help stabilise the prices of flour ahead of the anticipated shortage. Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe made the announcement even as he hinted at a possible maize flour shortage and a surge in prices. In a statement on Monday, May 26, Kagwe said the expected shortage has prompted the government to source from the National Strategic Grain Reserve (NSR), which is being disbursed to millers across the country. "We have initiated disbursement of maize, which will first be distributed to select depots in the North and South Rift Regions," Kagwe said, noting that the move will be fundamental in cushioning Kenyans against food shortages and possible maize flour price hikes.
Kenyans shopping for maize flour in a supermarket.
Photo According to the ministry, the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) will distribute the maize to registered millers in the region at a price of Ksh 4,250 per 90 KG bag. "The government has released the first batch of 200,000 bags of maize from the National Strategic Grain Reserve (NSR) to registered millers to help stabilise flour prices and curb a potential shortage," the CS said. "NCPB started receiving payments for the maize on Thursday, 22nd May 2025, with sales and collections expected to increase starting Monday, 26th May 2025.
The subsidy is expected to stabilise maize and maize flour prices, cushioning Kenyans from any price spikes," he said.
