Millers have revealed that they are still engaging with the government, justifying why the price of maize flour is yet to drop to Ksh100 as directed by the Ministry of Agriculture.
In a statement dated Tuesday, July 20, Cereal Millers Association (CMA) Chief Executive Officer stated that the millers were still holding discussions with the state to determine the exact prices to retail maize flour.
She added that they were making progress hinting that an agreement will be reached next week.
"The CMA is consulting the Ministry of Agriculture and other relevant stakeholders on how best to reduce maize flour prices.
"Negotiations are at an advanced stage but no price has been set. We will advise all stakeholders on progress made towards achieving our goal of providing adequate, affordable and nutritious maize flour," read the statement in part.
On his part, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary, Peter Munya assured the country that they would develop a framework to see the cost drop down to Ksh100 next week.
He refuted claims that the subsidy program was political insisting that the government was generally concerned with the high cost of living that has seen the prices of basic commodities skyrocket.
"This measure is meant to reduce the cost of maize coming to the country and ultimately reduce the cost of maize flour that is increasing.
"This is in addition to the directive where we allowed the millers to import maize that is duty-free from the rest of the world to reduce the cost of living," he stated.
Further, the CS revealed that they would work together with the millers to see the cost of a 2kg maize flour not retailing above Ksh100.
It was revealed that officials from the Ministry of Agriculture would inspect various retail shops to ensure that the directive is not contravened.
"It is agreed between the parties that the ministry shall deploy market surveillance teams to ensure that sifted maize flour is sold at the maximum recommended retail price stated.
"The market price of maize (per 90kg bag) as at the date of this contract is in the range of Ksh 5,800 and Ksh 6,000. Based on this market price, MOALFC will compensate the miller for each unit sold," the Ministry stated.
