Kenya Imports Maize, Wheat to Beat Rising Cost of Living

Kenya imported 21,455 metric tonnes of white maize from Mozambique which arrived in the country.

Ships carrying maize, wheat grain and sorghum docked at the port of Mombasa on Wednesday, April 5.

Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) report showed 27,998 metric tonnes of wheat and 22,820 metric tonnes of sorghum as part of the imports.

Kenyans could soon be relieved from the rising cost of living as maize imports arrive in the country.

President William Ruto announced his administration’s plans to import maize, rice and beans to cushion Kenyans from the high cost of living.

Ships carrying maize, wheat, and sorghum docked at the port of Mombasa on Wednesday, April 5.

Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) report showed 21,455 metric tonnes of white maize, 27,998 metric tonnes of wheat and 22,820 metric tonnes of sorghum.

The grains arrived from Mozambique (maize), Canada (wheat) and the US (sorghum), Business Daily reported.

The cost of unga has been on the rise due to the market shortage and high prices of maize and wheat grains.

Currently, a 2kg packet of maize flour retails at around KSh 180 and KSh 200, depending with the brand.

In March 2023, maize millers said the prices of maize have shot up to KSh 6,000 per 90kg bag, up from KSh 4,000 reported in January 2023.

United Grain Millers Association noted that about ten millers shut down operations following maize shortage and government failure to pay them subsidy money.

The association chair Ken Nyaga said most millers are struggling due to a lack of financial muscle to buy the grain.

KPA did not disclose the details of those importing the three grains that arrived in the country.

There were expectations of delays in the importation of duty-free maize, as millers claimed they were not involved.

The authority in March 2023 noted that there is no shipment of duty-free maize expected in the country soon.

Shipment documents showed vessels expected in the months are those carrying wheat grain, fertiliser, cooking oil, and steel coils, among other items.

Tags: wheat, sorghum, Kenya, white maize, imported, Mozambique, Kenya Ports Authority