President William Ruto has made a significant announcement, declaring that no permits will be issued to millers for the importation of wheat or maize into the country.

This comes only a few days after allowing the importation of yellow maize into the country.

The move, he emphasized, is a resolute effort to safeguard the interests of local farmers and bolster the nation's agricultural sector.

In a meeting held at State House, Nairobi, on Thursday, Ruto addressed a delegation from Narok North Constituency, led by its MP Agnes Pareiyo.

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"We ask our farmers not to sell their produce at throw-away prices," Ruto asserted firmly, underlining the government's commitment to ensuring fair compensation for the country's agricultural workforce.

To further demonstrate his government's support for local farmers, Ruto revealed that a substantial budget of Sh4 billion would be allocated to purchase maize directly from farmers.

This significant investment aims to stabilize maize prices and provide farmers with a reliable avenue to sell their produce.

Ruto also addressed the issue of high moisture levels causing post-harvest losses for maize farmers.

In response, he announced that the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) would provide maize drying services at a nominal fee of Sh50 per bag, a significant reduction from the previous cost of nearly Sh400.

He highlighted that this measure would enable farmers to safely store their produce even if they opt not to sell it to NCPB.

“Even if farmers don’t want to sell their maize to NCPB, they will have an opportunity to dry their produce at the State agency and store it,” the president explained.

Furthermore, President Ruto revealed plans for the construction of a Kenya Co-operative Creameries (KCC) milk plant in Narok.

This move aims to enhance the quality of locally produced milk, ultimately contributing to higher milk prices and improved income for dairy farmers.

The meeting also saw the presence of Governors Patrick Ole Ntutu of Narok and Jonathan Leleliit of Samburu, Narok West MP Gabriel Tongoyo, as well as various MCAs and grassroots leaders.