Uasin Gishu Governor Jackson Mandago addressing locals at Ziwa trading centre during Jubilee campaigns on October 14, 2017. [Photo: Joe Khisa]
Uasin Gishu Governor Jackson Mandago has called for the increase of the maize prices announced on Friday by the Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Willy Bett.
Bett has said the government would by maize from farmers for sh3,200 per 90kg bag.
However, Governor Mandago says the price is too low keeping in mind difficulties farmers encountered during this year's season.
"Farmers faced a lot of challenges ranging from the earthworms outbreak and drought hence the price announced by the CS is very low," Mandago said while on a Jubilee campaign trail at Ziwa on Saturday.
The governor wants the maize prices set at Sh4,000 per 90kg bag.
"I will consult with the CS and other relevant stakeholders to see to it that the price is increased so that farmers get value for their hard work," he added.
Maize production in the country this year is projected to drop by at least 6 million bags following the lethal earthworms outbreak and prolonged drought with North Rift region, the nation's food basket, most affected.
In Uasin Gishu alone, it's estimated that maize production will drop by about 1.4 million bags.