- Narok wheat and maize farmers demand government intervention as high fuel and input costs threaten production
- Growers want a fixed price of Ksh 6,000 per 90kg bag of wheat while tractor tilling costs jump to Ksh 2,500 per acre
- Farmers urge the government to ensure access to Ksh 1,800 subsidized DAP fertilizer and guaranteed minimum returns
Narok wheat and maize farmers are demanding an increase in the producer price of a 90kg bag of wheat to Ksh 6,000, while millers are currently offering between Ksh 3,100 and Ksh 3,200 for a 90kg bag of maize. The farmers are seeking government intervention following the rising cost of production driven by high fuel prices.
The farmers have threatened to stop cultivating the two staple crops and focus on alternative agricultural enterprises if they are unable to break even.
Led by Stanley Konyo, the farmers stated that many among them could be forced to diversify into other profitable ventures if the current market conditions persist. Speaking in Narok Town, Konyo revealed that vast tracts of land remain uncultivated due to soaring fuel prices.
“Most large-scale farmers depend on tractors for tilling, harrowing, planting, spraying, and harvesting. Because of the increased fuel prices, the cost of production has shot up too high, forcing many to withdraw from farming,” he stated.
He noted that the cost of tilling one acre has increased from Ksh 1,800 to Ksh 2,500, while harrowing costs have risen from Ksh 1,000 to Ksh 1,500 per acre.
“Currently, a 90kg bag of wheat sells between Ksh 3,000 and ksh 3,500 depending on the season. However, we request the government to regulate this price by fixing a Ksh 6,000 minimum price that will remain constant throughout the year,” he said.
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He urged the government to ensure the timely provision of subsidized Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) fertilizer, noting that agro-vet retail shops are currently selling a 50kg bag at Ksh 3,200, compared to the government-subsidized price of Ksh 1,800.
David Kilesi, another farmer in Narok, stated that many growers have been forced to abandon wheat farming despite favorable weather conditions experienced since last year due to input costs.
“Some farmers have opted to subdivide their land and lease it out for the cultivation of potatoes, cabbage, carrots, maize, and peas, which also perform well in the region,” Mr. Kilesi said.
He urged the government to intervene by subsidizing farm inputs to help growers maximize yields.
“Also, the government should consider introducing guaranteed minimum returns so that those affected by poor harvests can replant and service their loans,” Mr. Kilesi added.
Speaking during the meeting, Mr. Joseph Ole Nchoe urged farmers to hold out for higher farm-gate prices, advising them to sell their wheat at Ksh 6,000 per 90kg bag for Grade 1 and Ksh 5,500 per bag for Grade 2, and reject lower offers from middlemen and millers.
By Bernard Magada
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