Deputy President William Ruto has asked farmers in the North Rift region to be patient even as they wait to receive money from the government for maize they delivered to the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB).
Speaking on Saturday at the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Eldoret during the first anniversary for the late Eldoret Catholic Diocese Bishop Cornelius Korir, DP Ruto revealed that the government had released over Sh1 billion to be paid to the eligible maize farmers.
"In the next one week, maize farmers who haven't received money after they sold their maize produce to the government will receive their money because the government has released over Sh1 billion. I am calling on farmers to embrace patience before they can receive the money," he said.
The second in command, however, warned cartels against diverting the money to their own pockets saying anyone caught will face the law.
He noted that the country depends on Agriculture which is the backbone of the economy.
DP Ruto further urged elected leaders in the region not to engage in divisive politics with an intention to incite farmers who are yet to receive the money.
"As leaders, we should maintain peace and unity to ensure Kenyans are living in peace, unity and harmony," he added.
Maize farmers in the region considered the country's food basket have been up in arms following delays in releasing pay for the produce they supplied to NCPB.
#hivisasaoriginal