Kenya is preparing for a possible maize shortage after unfavourable weather disrupted the 2026 harvest, prompting the government to move to replenish its strategic grain reserves.
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has announced plans to import one million 90-kilogram bags of maize as part of measures to cushion the country against an anticipated supply deficit.
Kagwe said the maize shortfall could rise to as much as 5.4 million 90-kilogram bags by the end of September, making urgent intervention necessary to protect food supplies and limit additional pressure on maize prices.
The projected deficit follows a difficult 2026 growing season, with farmers facing a combination of unpredictable weather conditions. Rains arrived earlier than expected before giving way to a prolonged dry spell during crucial stages of crop development.
The weather disruption affected crop establishment and flowering, particularly in some of Kenya’s key maize-producing areas, according to Bloomberg.
Kagwe also attributed the expected decline in production to delays in the distribution of subsidised fertiliser. The delays affected farmers’ access to essential inputs during the planting period, further compounding the impact of unfavourable weather.
The Agriculture CS warned that the effects of the poor harvest could extend into the next planting season. Lower earnings from the current crop could leave farmers with limited resources to buy seeds, fertiliser and other inputs required for the next cycle.
As part of the government’s response, the State plans to bring in one million 90-kilogram bags of maize to replenish the strategic grain reserves and help cushion the country against the anticipated shortage.
