The Kenyan Ministry of Agriculture has announced that the NCPB will collect 321,000 bags of wheat from farmers to address the ongoing crisis, promising payments within 30 days. A memorandum with millers will ensure rapid payments for collected wheat. The initiative aims to increase local production from 8% to 40%, providing relief to farmers particularly in Narok, who previously struggled to sell their crop.
The Ministry of Agriculture in Kenya has declared that the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) will commence the collection of 321,000 bags of wheat from local farmers to mitigate the ongoing wheat crisis. Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe emphasized that payments for deliveries will be issued within 30 days of receipt at various warehouses throughout the nation.
Furthermore, Secretary Kagwe warned individuals attempting to undermine the situation by delivering imported wheat to the NCPB, indicating that such actions would lead to arrest for sabotage. A memorandum of understanding will be established between NCPB and millers, stipulating that collected wheat will be paid for within 14 to 21 days.
Kagwe aims to boost domestic wheat production from the current 8% to over 40% of the demand from millers, thereby minimizing reliance on imports. This initiative has been well-received by farmers in Narok County, who have struggled to market their wheat after a successful harvest last August.
Frustrated wheat farmers in Narok recently protested due to the lack of a marketplace for their crops. In response, the Ministry announced that farmers would receive Sh5,300 per bag for Grade 1 wheat and Sh5,200 for Grade 2 wheat, addressing their grievances.
The Kenyan government’s initiative through the NCPB to collect 321,000 bags of wheat is a significant move to alleviate the existing wheat crisis. By ensuring timely payments and promoting local production, the Ministry of Agriculture aims to support farmers and reduce reliance on imports. This response not only addresses farmers’ complaints but also seeks to enhance the overall agricultural landscape in the country.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
