The cost of daily life in Kenya is rising. Maize prices have increased by 45% since January, reaching Sh4,800 a bag, with projections of Sh5,500 by April.

The surge jeopardises food security, with ugali, the country’s staple, becoming increasingly expensive.

The Poultry Breeders Association of Kenya (PBAK) and the Association of Kenya Feed Manufacturers (AKAFEMA) have warned that the crisis is also wreaking havoc on the animal feed industry, raising chicken, egg, and dairy costs. 

AKAFEMA Chairman Joseph Karuri attributes the shortage to adverse weather, poor harvests, and disrupted regional supply chains.

“If this trend continues, ugali will become unaffordable for many Kenyans,” Karuri cautioned.

“The impact extends beyond households–livestock farmers are struggling with soaring feed costs, pushing meat and poultry prices even higher.”

PBAK and AKAFEMA are requesting the government, notably Agriculture CS Mutahi Kagwe, abolish maize import duties to stabilise prices and ensure supplies.

“Waiving taxes on imported maize is critical to preventing a full-blown food crisis,” Karuri says. “It will ease pressure on household budgets and safeguard the livestock sector.”

The associations are urging the government to take quick action, saying that failure to do so risks worsening food shortages, economic strain, and greater misery for millions of Kenyans. 

Source: AllAfrica