Tag Archives: Agriculture

Impact of Kenya’s Toxic Chemical Policy on Farmers and Exports

Posted on by

Kenya’s 2025 pesticide ban is more than a policy shift—it’s an overdue confrontation with dangerous agrochemical practices that have long gone unchecked. At the heart of the crackdown is Mancozeb, a fungicide so entrenched in Kenyan agriculture that it’s sprayed like water on tomatoes, potatoes, and maize. Yet this widely used chemical breaks down into ethylene thiourea (ETU)—a probable human carcinogen linked to thyroid harm and reproductive toxicity. Mancozeb has already been banned across the European Union and flagged by multiple global health authorities, but until now, it continued to flow into Kenyan markets with barely a check. Now, alongside Mancozeb, Kenya has also moved to restrict or suspend other hazardous products including chlorpyrifos, acephate, glyphosate, and dimethoate—compounds associated with cancer risks, neurotoxicity, endocrine disruption, and acute poisoning in both humans and animals. In withdrawing 77 toxic products and tightening rules on 202 more, the government is finally rejecting the toxic trade imbalance that treats African countries as chemical dumping grounds. The new policy aligns Kenyan regulation with international best practice: no pesticide can be registered here unless it’s also legal in its country of origin and in developed economies like the EU, USA, Canada, or Australia. It’s a turning point—but not without blowback.

A Report by K24TV

For years, Mancozeb symbolized Kenya’s regulatory inertia: cheap, accessible, and unchallenged despite the mounting science against it. Farmers, often unaware of its dangers, sprayed it without masks or gloves, storing the residues in their homes, their soil, and their food. Chlorpyrifos, a widely used insecticide linked to developmental harm in children, and glyphosate, a herbicide under global scrutiny for carcinogenicity, have followed similar trajectories—popular with farmers but flagged by scientists and health agencies. Now, the state faces a high-stakes transition. Smallholders reliant on these chemicals are being urged toward Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and agroecological alternatives. Yet less than 10% of Kenyan farmers use biopesticides, and most lack training, equipment, or trust in new inputs. The Pest Control Products Board, emboldened by fresh legislation, is finally flexing its oversight powers. But enforcement remains patchy, and counterfeit products exploit the regulatory vacuum. Mancozeb isn’t just a pesticide—it’s a case study in how economic expediency once overrode health and environmental responsibility. That era, Kenya now claims, is ending.

Timing is crucial. The EU is cracking down on residue limits. Kenya’s vegetable exports—once worth KSh 100 billion—have already taken a hit. If the country wants to stay competitive and credible, aligning with global safety standards is not optional. Mancozeb’s fall is both symbolic and strategic: it’s a warning to other harmful substances still in circulation—like profenofos, carbendazim, and triazophos—and a test of whether Kenya can enforce its own reform. This is where political will must hold—beyond press briefings and regulatory memos. Farmers need practical support. Consumers need transparency. And regulators must resist the pressure of well-funded pesticide lobbies looking to reverse course. Kenya has declared its direction. Now the country must walk it—with clarity, speed, and resolve—before the next generation pays the price in poisoned soil, sickened bodies, and lost trade.

References:

Trade World News Kenya Bans Import of 50 Pesticide Brands for Safer Farming

The Standard State cracks down on harmful pesticides, bans 77 products

The Star Civil society demand full disclosure of banned pesticides, calls for safer agricultural reforms

The Star 77 pesticides banned in Kenya as 202 others restricted – CS Kagwe

Kenya News Agency State urged to make to make public list of banned pesticides

Kenyans.co.ke Kenya Bans Use of Pesticides Not Approved in Europe, USA, Canada & Australia

Kenya’s Yellow Maize Strategy Offers Relief, But Raises Serious Public Health Concerns

Posted on by

Faced with a deepening maize crisis and the threat of unaffordable unga prices for millions of households, the Kenyan government has authorized the importation of yellow maize under a 50% duty waiver. The policy aims to ease the strain on white maize—Kenya’s staple grain for human consumption—by diverting demand from feed manufacturers. By encouraging millers in the animal feed industry to substitute white maize with yellow maize, the government hopes to reduce competition for white maize, making it more accessible and affordable to food processors and, ultimately, to consumers. However, this economic intervention carries unintended consequences that could undermine its goals. Due to Kenya’s fragmented supply chains and patchy enforcement mechanisms, experts warn that the clear division between maize meant for animals and that meant for humans may not hold. The significantly lower price of the imported yellow maize could tempt unscrupulous traders to redirect it into the human food market—either by blending it with white maize flour or selling it directly in low-income areas where yellow maize is already accepted as food, such as parts of Western Kenya. In places like Homa Bay County, where yellow maize is widely consumed in the form of ugali, this policy shift could unintentionally flood the food supply with grain that may not meet safety standards for human consumption.

A Report by NTV Kenya

The core of the concern lies in the persistent and well-documented threat of aflatoxin contamination, a toxic compound produced by mold that thrives in warm, humid conditions—particularly in improperly stored grains. While Kenya has established aflatoxin limits aligned with East African Community standards—10 parts per billion (ppb) for total aflatoxins and 5 ppb for aflatoxin B1—systemic challenges hinder enforcement. Many small-scale producers, informal traders, and millers lack access to the sophisticated equipment and financial resources needed to test for aflatoxins or implement preventive storage solutions. Furthermore, there have been troubling precedents that cast doubt on the robustness of regulatory oversight. In 2011, a shipment of aflatoxin-contaminated maize from the U.S. was allegedly released into the market despite being flagged by authorities, with reports suggesting that the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) was blocked from conducting proper inspections. More recently, in January 2025, a 2,000-tonne shipment of rice from Pakistan was found to exceed aflatoxin limits, indicating that lapses in import control remain a pressing issue. These incidents demonstrate that having regulations on paper is not enough—especially when imports labeled for animal feed, which undergo less rigorous scrutiny, may be co-opted into the human food chain in the absence of strict monitoring, reliable segregation mechanisms, and transparent accountability.

The potential health implications of increased aflatoxin exposure are grave and far-reaching, especially for vulnerable populations who rely heavily on maize as their primary food source. Acute exposure can lead to severe liver damage, jaundice, and even death, while long-term, low-level exposure is linked to liver cancer, immune system suppression, nutrient malabsorption, and developmental issues in children. Infants and young children face elevated risks due to their small body mass and the fact that complementary weaning foods are often maize-based, yet specific aflatoxin regulations for these products are either absent or poorly enforced. For populations with pre-existing liver conditions, Hepatitis B infections, or compromised immunity—such as people living with HIV—the health risks are significantly amplified. Malnourished individuals and rural subsistence farmers, who often rely on their own poorly stored harvests, are also at heightened risk. In the face of this looming danger, health advocates and food safety experts are calling on the Kenyan government to urgently invest in comprehensive and well-coordinated countermeasures. These include rigorous aflatoxin testing of all maize imports, stricter enforcement to prevent feed-grade yellow maize from entering the human food stream, large-scale public education campaigns targeting high-risk regions, and long-term investments in improved post-harvest storage infrastructure. Without such measures, the policy designed to stabilize food prices could inadvertently trigger a public health emergency—one that disproportionately affects the country’s poorest and most vulnerable.

References:

Nation Kagwe bows to pressure, opens imports as unga prices hit 13-month high

Jijuze Maize Prices Surge: Impact on Kenya’s Livestock and Food Security

Milling Middle East & Africa Kenya to halt maize, sugar imports in 2025 after achieving self-sufficiency

The Star Why state will allow importation 5.5 million bags of yellow maize – Kagwe

Randox Food Diagnostics Kenyans at risk of aflatoxin contamination as KEBS flags 2,000-tonne rice shipment

Business Daily Turn Kenya farms yellow with maize for food security







Maize Prices Surge: Impact on Kenya’s Livestock and Food Security

Posted on by

The specter of a significant food crisis is looming over Kenya as a severe maize shortage grips the nation, sending prices soaring and sparking urgent warnings from key industry players. The Poultry Breeders Association of Kenya and the Association of Kenya Feed Manufacturers have jointly raised the alarm, highlighting a dramatic 45% surge in maize prices since the start of the year, with costs projected to climb even further by April. This sharp increase is directly translating to a painful escalation in the cost of living for millions of Kenyans, as maize flour, the staple ingredient for the widely consumed ‘ugali,’ becomes increasingly expensive. For households already struggling with tight budgets, this spike in the price of a fundamental food item poses a significant threat to their food security and overall well-being. The crisis underscores the delicate balance within the nation’s food system and the profound impact that fluctuations in the availability and cost of a single commodity like maize can have on the lives of ordinary citizens.

A Report on How to Plant Maize in Kenya by Citizen Digital

The ramifications of this maize shortage extend far beyond the immediate concerns of household consumption, creating a domino effect throughout the interconnected agricultural sector. The livestock industry, particularly poultry farming, is facing a critical challenge as maize constitutes a primary component of animal feed. The exorbitant rise in maize prices has led to a corresponding surge in the cost of producing animal feed, a burden that is inevitably passed on to farmers. Consequently, consumers are now facing higher prices for essential animal products such as chicken, eggs, meat, and dairy, further compounding the financial strain on families. This intricate link between maize production and the livestock sector demonstrates the vulnerability of the entire food supply chain to disruptions affecting a single key input. The crisis highlights how a shortage in one area of agriculture can trigger price hikes and economic hardship across multiple sectors, ultimately impacting the affordability and accessibility of a wide range of food products for the Kenyan population.

In response to this escalating crisis, industry associations are urgently appealing to the government for immediate intervention, primarily advocating for the waiver of import duties on maize to facilitate increased imports and stabilize the runaway prices. While the government has historically employed measures such as fertilizer subsidies to support local production, the current situation demands swift action to address the immediate supply deficit. The long-term solution, however, lies in building a more resilient and diversified food system. This includes promoting the production and consumption of alternative, nutritious crops to reduce the nation’s heavy reliance on maize, investing in improved storage facilities to minimize post-harvest losses, and adopting sustainable agricultural practices to enhance productivity and withstand future climate shocks. The current maize crisis serves as a stark reminder of the need for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to ensure food security for all Kenyans, safeguarding livelihoods and stabilizing the economy against the volatile nature of agricultural markets and environmental factors.

References:

The Star Industry players warn of imminent food crisis on maize shortage, rising prices

Milling Middle East & Africa Kenya’s maize harvest to surge 15% in 2025/2026:  USDA

Capital Business Maize shortage sparks food crisis as prices soar

KIPPRA Four Ways to Address the Rising Food Prices in Kenya

Busara Groundwork Cultivating resilience: Promoting investment in alternative agricultural products for enhanced food security in Kenya PDF


How to Access Subsidized Fertilizer in Kenya

Posted on by

The arrival of a 20,000-tonne fertilizer consignment at Mombasa Port marks a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to support farmers ahead of the long rainy season, a crucial period for agricultural production in Kenya. The timely arrival of this shipment is expected to provide much-needed inputs to enhance food security and boost national yields. An additional 1,300 metric tons of fertilizer is expected soon, further reinforcing the commitment to ensuring farmers have access to essential inputs. However, concerns remain over the lack of transparency regarding the origin and composition of the shipment. The absence of details on the supplier and specific types of fertilizer included in the consignment may limit farmers’ ability to plan effectively, as different soil types and crops require specialized fertilizers for optimal growth. Additionally, past cases of substandard or expired fertilizers in the market have made quality assurance a priority for farmers and stakeholders alike. The government’s approach to addressing these concerns focuses on efficient allocation and swift distribution, primarily managed through the Kenya Integrated Agriculture Management Information System (KIAMIS), ensuring that only registered farmers receive their fair share of subsidized fertilizer.

To guarantee the quality of fertilizer reaching farmers, the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) plays a critical role in enforcing national quality standards. Farmers are urged to verify the authenticity of their fertilizer by checking for the KEBS Standardization Mark on the packaging and utilizing the SMS verification system by texting the unique code beneath the mark to 20023. This verification step is essential to protect farmers from counterfeit or substandard products that could negatively impact yields. Furthermore, distribution logistics have been carefully structured to ensure that fertilizer reaches key agricultural regions efficiently. The government, in collaboration with the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB), is overseeing a multi-modal transportation plan where the fertilizer is first transported from Mombasa to Naivasha by train and then distributed to major farming areas like Uasin Gishu, Bomet, and Nakuru via trucks. This logistical approach is intended to overcome transportation bottlenecks and ensure that farmers across the country receive their fertilizer in time for planting. However, the initial reports do not specify which types of fertilizers—such as Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) or Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN)—are included in the shipment, leaving many farmers uncertain about how best to apply them to different crops. As a result, farmers are encouraged to seek further clarification from NCPB depots or agricultural extension officers before application.

Farmers looking to access the subsidized fertilizer must ensure they are registered with KIAMIS, a digital platform designed to streamline distribution and enhance transparency. Registration can be done through the National Government Administration offices, including local chiefs and village elders, or by dialing *616*3# to confirm or update their details. The use of this system helps prioritize genuine farmers while reducing the risk of fraudulent claims. Once registered, farmers should promptly check with their nearest NCPB depots to inquire about fertilizer availability and collection procedures, as delays in retrieval could affect their planting schedules. Additionally, soil testing is recommended to determine the specific nutrient requirements for different crops, allowing farmers to apply the right type and amount of fertilizer for maximum productivity. Staying informed through official government communication channels, such as the Ministry of Agriculture and NCPB updates, is crucial to keeping track of distribution schedules and additional shipments. With proper planning, timely collection, and strategic application of fertilizer, Kenyan farmers stand to significantly improve yields, contributing to national food security and economic growth.

References:

Kenya News Agency Farmers to receive fertilizer ahead of long rains

The Eastleigh Voice 20,000 tonnes of fertiliser arrive at Mombasa port as planting season starts

KEBS Marks of Quality

All Africa Kenya: Govt Assures Farmers On Subsidy Fertilizer Quality








Challenges and Opportunities in Kenya’s Livestock Vaccination Initiative

Posted on by

In recent developments within Kenya’s livestock sector, the government has announced a nationwide vaccination campaign, a strategic pivot that could redefine animal husbandry in the country. The initiative, backed by the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) and several animal health experts, champions the transition from antibiotic reliance towards a more sustainable vaccination approach. This movement addresses the pressing issue of antimicrobial resistance, aligning Kenyan livestock practices with international standards for sustainable farming. Vaccination programs play a pivotal role in preventing devastating livestock diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), which have historically undercut productivity and adversely affected farmers’ livelihoods. The shift to proactive disease control minimizes the economic burden of managing diseases and reduces livestock mortality rates, potentially boosting food security and enhancing economic resilience. Enhanced livestock health could open doors for Kenyan farmers, granting them access to lucrative regional and global markets, a strategic goal strongly supported by President William Ruto’s administration.

Citizen Digital Report

However, the ambitious vaccine rollout is not without its challenges and controversies. Skepticism from both political circles and the public highlights the undercurrent of mistrust surrounding the program’s execution. Notably, political figures like Kalonzo Musyoka have voiced concerns regarding the transparency and objectives of the vaccination initiative, fearing potential hidden political motives that could disadvantage farmers economically. These fears are compounded by the anticipated costs of vaccination, with lingering questions regarding financial subsidies for smallholder farmers to ensure that the program does not exacerbate existing inequalities in the agricultural sector. Logistical hurdles, especially in reaching remote areas, also pose a significant threat to achieving comprehensive vaccination coverage, which is critical for the program’s success. Moreover, local law firms have expressed apprehensions about the legal and contractual aspects of the campaign, emphasizing the need for thorough stakeholder consultation, contract transparency, and a robust legal framework to address potential intellectual property issues and liability concerns.

The international involvement in Kenya’s nationwide livestock vaccination program opens a critical discussion about the balance between foreign influence and national sovereignty in shaping agricultural policies. While funding from donors like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and DFID, through organizations such as GALVmed, brings essential resources and expertise, it also prompts questions about Kenya’s self-reliance. How should Kenya manage this delicate balance to ensure that foreign partnerships strengthen rather than overshadow its national interests? Critics argue there’s a risk of dependency that might undermine local innovation and capacity. Engaging in this conversation involves considering how transparent communication and robust legal frameworks can safeguard Kenya’s sovereignty while leveraging global support. Moreover, it challenges us to assess success not just economically, but in how policies empower smallholder farmers and protect against undue external influence. As stakeholders, we have an opportunity to influence how these dynamics play out, aiming for a future where Kenya’s livestock sector thrives autonomously yet collaboratively on the global stage.

References:

Kenya News Agency Kenya to use local vaccines for livestock vaccination

The Star State denies sinister motive in livestock vaccination

Nation Kalonzo: Kenyans must reject Ruto’s countrywide livestock vaccination plan

The Star Ruto: Anybody opposed to animal vaccination is mad

International Livestock Research Institute More vaccination, not antibiotics, needed for Kenyan livestock—Straight talk by Sidai Chair Christie Peacock

Tuko Cattle Vaccination Isn’t Mandatory, Govt Changes Tune amid Criticism: “It’s Voluntary”

AllAfrica Kenya: City Law Firm Contests Govt Mass Livestock Vaccination Exercise

Capital Business City law firm contests govt mass livestock vaccination exercise

The Standard Livestock vaccination to open global market: Ruto

GALVmed How to bridge the divide across Africa’s fragmented veterinary medicine sector


Harnessing the Power of Off-Season Vegetable Production: A Boon for Kenyan Agribusiness

Posted on by

In an era marked by fluctuating weather patterns and volatile market demands, leaving fields fallow while waiting for the next planting season is increasingly becoming a missed opportunity for Kenyan farmers. Off-season vegetable production presents a compelling alternative, transforming idle land into a hub of year-round productivity and profitability. By leveraging advanced farming techniques—such as protected cultivation, targeted irrigation, and specialized seed varieties—farmers can maintain high levels of agricultural activity, even when traditional conditions for planting are less favorable. This approach circumvents supply chain gaps and volatile pricing by providing a stable influx of crops during lean periods when demand is high, boosting farm incomes notably.

Arjun Agriculture World Report

Turning fallow fields into productive assets, off-season vegetable production improves land productivity, an especially attractive option for smallholder farmers contending with limited acreage. Through continuous and diverse cropping, this alternative farming method amplifies land output, countering the constraining effects of dwindling land resources. By cultivating diverse, high-value crops continuously, farmers not only elevate their financial prospects but also make significant strides toward enhancing food security. Off-season farming ensures a reliable supply of nutritious vegetables, addressing malnutrition and seasonal food shortages prevalent in rural communities. Technologies such as heat-tolerant plants, cost-effective rain shelters, and plant growth regulators enable farmers to navigate climatic variability while maximizing yields. This strategy not only transforms the landscape of agriculture in Kenya but also epitomizes a paradigm shift towards sustained economic growth through strategic land use.

Addressing the challenges linked to adopting off-season agriculture invites an engaging dialogue on how Kenyan farmers can collectively embrace this transformative strategy. We encourage you, our readers, to share your insights on empowering farmers to turn idle periods into productive opportunities. How can we make necessary investments in infrastructure—like greenhouses and protective shelters—more accessible to smallholders? Maybe innovative solutions such as micro-financing or government-backed subsidies hold the key to unlocking this potential. Additionally, with the heightened pest and disease risks during off-seasons, what role do you see for Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in creating a sustainable pest control ecosystem? Perhaps you have experiences or innovative ideas about training programs to equip farmers with essential skills in water management, crop selection, and sustainable practices. This open conversation is crucial for crafting strategies that make year-round farming a reality. We invite you to contribute your perspectives, share success stories, or propose novel solutions to foster interactive learning and collaboration within the farming community. Your input is vital as we work together to redefine food security and economic resilience in Kenya, nurturing a vibrant and globally competitive agribusiness sector. Join the conversation, inspire change, and help shape a sustainable agricultural future.

References:

Nation Come rain or sunshine, our crops thrive and we sell produce off season

Science Direct Farmer training in off-season vegetables: Effects on income and pesticide use in Bangladesh

Harvest Money Off-Season The Best Time To Grow Vegetables For Profit


Coast Governors Veto Muguka Sale

Posted on by

President William Ruto has reversed a ban on Muguka, a stimulant linked to drug abuse among young people, which was previously announced by three coastal leaders in Kenya. Ruto directed the Ministry of Agriculture to engage all stakeholders, emphasizing the economic importance of muguka for Embu County, where it brings in significant income. Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi declared the ban by the three governors as invalid, noting that Muguka is legally recognized as a cash crop under existing regulations.

Considering that the County Governor serves as the chief executive officer of the county government in Kenya, and recognizing the dual-level structure of governance comprising the national and county governments, it is within the purview of the County Governor to exercise legislative and executive powers at the county level. In accordance with the principles of devolution enshrined in the Constitution of Kenya, County Governors possess the authority to promulgate and enforce ordinances and regulations that address the specific needs and welfare of their respective communities. Consequently, in situations where such local enactments are demonstrably in the best interest of the county’s populace, the authority of the County Governor to override or modify national legislation may be justified, ensuring that local governance is responsive and tailored to the unique socio-economic and cultural context of the county.

Calls for tougher penalties to combat the sale of illicit brews in Kenya are amplified, emphasizing the need for comprehensive measures from both the Executive and Parliament. The surge in criminal activities linked to the trade is a cause for concern, prompting advocates for stricter enforcement of laws regulating alcoholic beverages. Meanwhile, the Nakuru Bar Owners Association supports government initiatives to eliminate illicit liquor sales, citing concerns over public health and legitimate businesses. In contrast, the sale and consumption of Muguka, a psychotropic substance, present growing concerns, particularly in coastal regions. Pressure mounts on the government to address the social and health consequences associated with Muguka use, including addiction and criminal activities. Efforts to regulate Muguka sales and consumption are underway, but challenges persist in enforcing restrictions and combating its proliferating trade.

In the same way that the unwavering dedication of law enforcement in Bahati, Nakuru County, has tackled the scourge of second-generation alcohol, so too must this steadfast commitment be mirrored at the coast to combat the sale of Muguka. True progress in safeguarding our communities lies in applying consistent zeal and resolve across all regions, recognising that the health and future of our society depend on our collective and equal efforts.

References

The Africa Report Kenya: Ruto’s reversal of muguka ban in coastal region draws criticism

AfroCave Role and Functions of a County Governor in Kenya

Kenya News Agency Ex-MP Calls For Stiffer Penalties To Curb Sale, Consumption Of Illicit Brews

KENYA FOOD SECURITY | A critical view

Posted on by

Co-Author :  Victor Daniels

On February 22, 2010, a senior policy analyst with the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA), was quoted saying, “we have a challenge in the management of our public affairs [and] the management of our food stocks. Sometimes we are exporting food yet we later need to import. There is failure to learn from best practices, to invest in knowledge and transform that knowledge into action.”

According to OneWorld UK, the UN “estimates that 3.5 million Kenyans will require food assistance, a figure that may rise before the end of 2011.” However, the assessments updated on July, 2011, “exclude the Somali refugees located in the Dadaab camps in eastern Kenya whose plight is managed as an international refugee crisis, as distinct from Kenya’s national food insecurity.” Scholars have blamed the looming food crisis in Kenya, not only on the failure of successive seasonal rains, but also on poor standards of governance, and mismanagement of the agriculture sector, coupled with lack of political goodwill. Providing credit facilities to farmers, setting up micro-irrigation schemes, and cash transfers to poor farmers, as well as effecting input subsidies are just but a few ways to begin the comprehensive process, to realize food security in Kenya.

Kenya Food Security

In light of the above, an economy should be based on a long-lasting, reliable system, not on slavery, and coercion. Our economy relies on greed, and a serious lack of thought about consequences. That is a very unstable sort of economy. A lucid socio-economic analysis of the mechanisms of exploitative processes in the Kenyan economy brings out Kenya’s predicament in the light of under-hand shady policy making, which is not exclusively Marxist, but still draws heavily on that school of thought. Even before the fall of the KANU regime, the prices of prime commodities such as tea, sugar, rice, and maize, have constantly been rising, which creates a conflict of interests considering we locally produce the same. Where does the buck stop? Can we still interpret this, as Kenya’s success story? Are the Kenyan food policies a success in terms of growth, or total output? The time has come to reappraise agricultural pricing policies in general, so that agriculture makes its optimum contribution to maximizing gross national production. For maize, the Kenyan staple grain, the producer’s selling price should be reviewed, and be set at the relevant export parity price. The consumer price should be down to a comfortable level, thus, the price should be set at the producer’s selling price, plus marketing costs- incurred in distributing the maize to consumers. It is true that costs are rising, but then, if a justified investment policy was directed for export, we would expect the abolition of domestic marketing, thus, providing comfortable floor and ceiling prices. Starvation in most Kenyan regions remains to haunt us due to the government’s sub-standard reckoning, without political goodwill for the Kenyan people. Well known Members of Parliament, politicians, senior civil servants, and business men affiliated to high echelons of power, have repeatedly been accused with controversial maize and sugar imports and exports, but still, calls to prosecute the alleged suspects, go unheeded. Impunity and indecisiveness, thrives at high levels of governance, and on the miseries of the citizenry, where justice refers to how deep your pockets are. Budgetary allocation for the Ministry of State for Development of Northern Kenya and Other Arid Lands is irrelevant, if the people meant to be protected by the same, are dying of acute food shortage, and malnutrition. The chronic famine situation in Kenya, signals a malfunction in the governance of the Kenyan democracy. Kenya truly needs, a decentralized system, of running State affairs. Focus should be on the people and their strengths, instead of importing western innovations, and ideologies. Since we should be the change we want to see, we should put an end to popularistic politics, and deal with real issues affecting Kenyans on the ground, in a comprehensive manner.

References:

Food Security in Kenya-briefing OneWorld UK, July, 2011

Experts voice food security concerns IRIN Africa, February 22, 2010

Outrage over rising food and fuel prices IRIN Africa, April 20, 2011