The government has released 200,000 bags of maize from the National Strategic Grain Reserve (NSR) to millers in a bid to cushion Kenyans from rising flour prices and potential maize shortages
In a statement on Monday, May 26, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe announced the move, stating that the maize will be distributed to millers at a subsidized rate.
"The stocks held by the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) will be allocated to Miller Associations and individual millers in 90 kg bags at a subsidized rate of Ksh4,250 per bag. The first batch will be distributed through select depots in the North and South Rift regions,” he said.
In a move to ensure transparency and fair distribution, Kagwe noted that millers will be required to meet strict criteria before allocation.
"To be considered for allocation, millers will be required to indicate their milling capacity, present a certificate of incorporation, a tax compliance certificate, and a KEBS quality certificate,” he continued.
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Kagwe further noted that the payment and distribution process has already begun and is expected to intensify in the coming days.
“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 stabilize maize and maize flour prices, cushioning Kenyans from any price spikes,” he added.
Further, to prevent misuse of the subsidized maize, Kagwe confirmed that the ministry has implemented strict control measures.
"To deter stock hoarding, millers allocated the NSR maize are required to make an initial payment for 25% of their total allocation and provide proof of milling and distribution of flour before the full allocation is allowed. They must also submit a maize utilization report before the payment for 75% is accepted,” he further stated.
According to Kagwe, millers are currently collecting their maize allocations from NCPB depots, with Eldoret and Moi’s Bridge being among the primary pickup points.
Once collected, millers are expected to begin milling and distribute the flour to retail outlets without delay.
