Kenya’s maize sector is facing a growing crisis as poor rainfall leaves crops withered across several key producing counties.
Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Nandi, Elgeyo Marakwet, Bungoma, Kakamega, Baringo and Narok are among the affected areas.
In Trans Nzoia alone, about 50,000 acres of maize have reportedly been destroyed, with farmers facing average losses of Sh50,000 per acre.
The crop failure comes as the price of a 90-kilogramme bag of maize rises to Sh4,500, up from Sh3,700.
Maize is a key staple in Kenya, with the country requiring about 3.4 million tonnes annually.
Average consumption stands at about 100 kilogrammes per person each year.
The worsening situation has also heightened concerns over food security and farmers’ livelihoods.
Kenya is seeking Sh58 billion from the World Bank to address the effects of the climate change crisis, which continues to threaten agricultural production.
