The Cereal Millers Association (CMA) has responded to recent media reports accusing millers of frustrating local wheat farmers. In a statement released on Thursday, the CMA strongly refuted claims that its members are prioritizing imported wheat over locally grown produce.
According to the CMA, local wheat farmers have seen their produce purchased by millers, with imports only serving to fill the gap in the country’s wheat supply. The millers presented data to show that nearly all available local wheat has been purchased by millers, with imports making up only a small portion of total consumption.
Over the past seven years, locally grown wheat has accounted for an average of 6.05% of total wheat consumption. This percentage grew to 7% following a particularly good harvest year. The millers also pointed out that by February 2025, 86% of the anticipated local wheat harvest had already been bought.
However, the CMA is calling on the government to align wheat prices with the costs of production and to allow market forces to determine prices. They argue this will create more efficiency, sustainability, and better food security for the country.
They also emphasized the need for improved data management and coordination within the wheat sector to guide better policy-making. Their statement comes just days after Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe announced the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) would begin collecting 321,000 bags of wheat from farmers nationwide starting March 4, 2025.
While the move has raised concerns among millers, as they will need to purchase wheat from the NCPB, the CMA has urged all stakeholders to base decisions on accurate data and avoid short-sighted policies.
“We remain open to engagement and collaboration in finding long-term solutions that will strengthen Kenya’s wheat sector and improve local production,” the CMA concluded.
As the government steps up its efforts to stabilize the wheat market, it’s clear that a balanced approach is essential to ensuring a thriving agricultural sector in Kenya.
