Offloading of imported maize at the Mombasa Port. [Photo/@NationBreaking/Twitter]
The Ministry of Agriculture has come out to defend itself, over the questionable manner in which the 29,900 metric tonnes of maize, was allegedly imported from Mexico last week.
Transport Principal Secretary (PS) Paul Mwangi now says the Mexican white maize, was shipped through South Africa, since it was imported from Mexico last year when there was an acute shortage.
Mwangi said excess maize was stored in Durban, and sold to Kenya by Inter Africa Grains PTY of Johannesburg.Speaking at the Mombasa Port, Monday, Mwangi said: "The maize is therefore Mexican white maize which was transshipped into Kenya from South Africa by private milers.''
The private millers are Hydery (P) Ltd (imported 9,900 metric tonnes) and Kitui Flour Mills, and Pembe Flour Mills, which imported 10,000 metric tonnes each.
Mwangi further indicated the second vessel will dock at the Mombasa Port in three weeks time.
Kenyans have questioned the manner in which the imports were made, even as the Mexican Embassy denied selling maize to the Kenyan government.
It said it has been selling high quality non GMO white maize to private businessmen.
While receiving the ship at the Port, last week, Agriculture CS Willy Bett indicated the consignment was from Mexico, and that it was imported by the Ministry.
He said the imports would not affect farmers' harvests, since it was enough for the shortage time, only.