Kagwe Cracks Down on Maize Hoarders with 30-Day Deadline Before Import Floodgates Open
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has issued a stern 30-day ultimatum to maize hoarders, demanding they release stocks to the market or face duty-free imports.
Speaking in Sagana on January 26, 2026, Kagwe emphasized the government’s priority to buy from local farmers at Sh4,000 per bag using Sh1.7 billion to restock the Strategic Grain Reserve with 1.7 million bags.
“We are paying Sh4,000 per bag, with Sh1.7 billion allocated for procurement. Our priority is to source maize locally; imports will only be considered as a last resort,” Kagwe stated.
Ultimatum Targets Speculators
Kagwe warned traders and farmers against artificial shortages driving up ugali prices, stating duty-free maize from non-COMESA sources will flood in if NCPB depots aren’t filled within a month.
This follows doubled maize output from 9.1 million subsidized fertilizer bags in 2025, yet hoarding persists amid peak consumption. He urged NCPB to fix system glitches delaying farmer payments.
Fertilizer and Dryer ReformsTo boost efficiency, the ministry is reallocating 60+ maize dryers to high-yield zones and cooperatives, cutting transport costs and losses.
County governments will register agro-dealers to improve last-mile distribution, supported by an instant payment system ensuring timely payment upon voucher redemption.
“This system will lower transport costs, address last-mile delivery challenges, and guarantee fertiliser availability at the village level,” Mutahi Kagwe said.
Counties will register agro-dealers for village-level fertilizer access, building on subsidy successes that enhanced yields. Kagwe stressed soil-mapping with counties for targeted fertilizers to lift farmer incomes.
Policies on Rice and Wheat
Kenya produces just 20% of rice needs (importing 80%, with a 380,000MT deficit by early 2026) and 10% of wheat, but local produce must be absorbed first before imports.
Mwea logistical delays aren’t a national crisis; NCPB can mill more rice locally to spur production.Kagwe affirmed: “Food security is a national duty.
“Food security is not optional; it is a national duty. We must have enough food in our stores,” Mutahi Kagwe concluded.
This move aims to stabilize flour prices, shield millers from speculation, and prioritize local sourcing over imports.
With reserves targeting 4 million bags long-term, it signals tougher enforcement against hoarders while incentivizing output. Stakeholders watch if the deadline curbs profiteering in Kenya’s staple grain market.