Samia Orders Maize Price Adjustment to Support Farmers

President Samia Suluhu Hassan has directed an immediate increase in the price of maize to TSh. 700 per kilogram.

This directive comes as a result of the farmers’ complaints about the previous prices not reflecting the cost of production and their profitability.

During her visit to the Mandera grounds in Sumbawanga, President Samia announced on July 17, 2024, that the new price adjustment is aimed at ensuring that farmers receive a fair return for their hard work. She instructed Agriculture Minister Hussein Bashe to enforce the new price immediately.

Starting July 18, 2024, the National Food Reserve Agency (NFRA) will implement this directive, setting the purchasing price at TSh. 700 per kilogram. This move is expected to stabilize the market and ensure that farmers in Rukwa benefit from improved income, fostering better agricultural productivity and sustainability in the region.

President Samia emphasized the importance of this adjustment for the agricultural sector, highlighting that fair pricing is crucial for the livelihoods of farmers and the overall food security of the nation. She noted that the government is committed to supporting farmers through various initiatives, including providing subsidies for agricultural inputs, improving access to markets, and investing in infrastructure to facilitate better storage and distribution of produce.

Farmers in Rukwa have long expressed concerns over the low prices of maize, which they argued were not commensurate with the high costs of production.

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The increased price is expected to alleviate some of the financial pressures they face, enabling them to invest more in their farming activities and ultimately increase their yield and quality of produce.

The directive also aligns with broader government policies aimed at boosting the agricultural sector. By ensuring that farmers receive fair compensation for their crops, the government hopes to encourage more people to engage in farming, thereby increasing food production and reducing dependency on imports.

Furthermore, the new pricing policy is anticipated to have a ripple effect on the local economy. As farmers gain more income, they are likely to spend more on goods and services within their communities, stimulating economic growth and development in the region.