The Ministry of Agriculture in Kenya has announced that the NCPB will collect 321,000 bags of wheat to address a national crisis. Farmers will receive payments within 30 days for their deliveries. A warning has been issued against those delivering imported wheat to disrupt this effort. The Ministry aims to increase local wheat production significantly over the next few years, benefiting farmers who have faced ongoing selling difficulties.
The Ministry of Agriculture in Kenya has declared that the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) will initiate the collection of 321,000 bags of wheat to alleviate the current wheat shortage in the nation. Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has communicated that NCPB will ensure payment to farmers within 30 days following the delivery of their products to various warehouses throughout the country.
Additionally, the Cabinet Secretary has issued a stern warning to individuals intending to disrupt this process by delivering imported wheat to the NCPB, emphasizing that such actions would result in arrest and charges of sabotage. According to the ministry’s announcement, a memorandum of understanding will be established between the NCPB and the millers, stipulating that millers will collect the wheat and make payments within 14 to 21 days.
Furthermore, Kagwe has expressed his commitment to reducing the nation’s reliance on wheat imports by encouraging local farmers to enhance their production capabilities from the current 8% to over 40% of the millers’ demand. This initiative is particularly crucial for farmers in Narok, who have been vocal about their challenges in marketing their surplus harvest following a bumper season.
In light of these developments, farmers in Narok County had previously staged protests due to the difficulties faced in selling their wheat since the harvest commenced in August of the previous year. In response to the frustrations expressed by farmers, the Ministry has assured them of a pricing structure where farmers will receive Sh5,300 per bag for Grade 1 wheat and Sh5,200 for Grade 2 wheat.
The initiation of the NCPB’s wheat collection is a significant step in addressing the ongoing wheat crisis in Kenya. With prompt payments to farmers and a commitment to enhancing local production, the Ministry of Agriculture aims to stabilize the wheat market and meet national demand. This initiative is expected to provide much-needed relief to farmers, particularly those in Narok County, who have faced significant challenges in selling their crops during this period.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
