Maize farmers in Busia and most parts of the Western Region have a reason to smile after their region witnessed a bumper harvest that has led to a drastic drop in the maize price from Kes 230 to Kes 80 per 2-kilogramme tin, locally referred to as gorogoro.

According to KNA, maize in Busia, the main measure in the market, is now retailing between Kes 70 and Kes 80 in the five markets of Buyofu, Butula, Lukolis, Malaba Town, and Miyanga that were visited.

Because maize is now widely available, residents enjoy their favourite Ugali meal without problems. Ugali is produced from maize flour.

High yields were achieved due to residents following government instructions during planting season and using subsidised fertilisers effectively.

Alfred Musungu, a well-known farmer and trader in the Buyofu market, stated that the traders are purchasing tin from the farmers for between Kes 70 and Kes 80 and selling it for between Kes 100.

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“We have realised a good harvest this season, and already we have planted for the second season, expecting short rains to keep the crops healthy on the farm. We anticipate a good harvest should the government send the subsidised fertilisers on time,” noted Musungu.

However, Musungu warned farmers that this might not be a good signal as they are likely to earn less as the brokers flock the market for maize, taking advantage of vulnerable farmers who are just recovering from hard economic times.

“With the meteorological department warning of a prolonged dry spell in most parts of the country, farmers’ woes may be compounded unless the government enacts rules that govern the sale of maize to cartels that sell back at hiked prices a few months later,” he added.