Uasin Gishu Senator Isaac Melly wants the government to buy maize from farmers at prices that would not discourage farmers.
Speaking to the press at Eldoret town, the senator said that the Sh 2,300 the government is giving for a 90Kg bag of maize is a slap on the face of farmers.
The senator said that the government has money to buy maize at good prices.
“The money is too little for farmers bearing in mind that maize production was affected by pests and disease,” he said.
Melly asked the government to buy the maize from Sh 3,500-Sh 4,000 for a 90Kg bag stating that buying the maize at good rates will give farmers morale.
The senator at the same time cautioned farmers against selling their produce to middle-men saying they would only exploit farmers.
He asked farmers to keep their produce and sell to the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPD) when the prices will be improved.
At the same time, the senator called for laws that will protect farmers from manipulation by middlemen.
Melly alleged that most farmers in the county are selling their produce at throw away prices.
The government through the Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Felix Koskei announced last week that they will be buying maize from farmers at Sh 2,300 for a 90Kg bag.