Kindiki Promises Food and Fuel Price Stabilization as Kenya Achieves Maize Self-Sufficiency

Kenya's Deputy President Kithure Kindiki announced a comprehensive initiative aimed at reviving stalled projects in Meru County during a press briefing at his Karen residence in Nairobi on February 18.

The government has allocated funds specifically for the completion of last-mile electricity connections and the development of local markets, marking a significant step towards enhancing economic growth in the region. In his statement, Kindiki addresses the economic challenges inherited from the previous administration, noting that President William Ruto has dedicated two years to stabilize the economy and initiate recovery efforts. The Deputy President emphasizes the current government’s focus on building a robust economy to improve household incomes.

A key highlight of Kindiki’s remarks is Kenya’s recent achievement in maize production. For the first time in 16 years, the country has reached self-sufficiency in maize, alongside a sufficient domestic sugar production level to satisfy local demand. This progress is crucial for reducing Kenya's dependency on imports. Kindiki has also tackled concerns regarding the Isiolo-Mandera road project, reaffirming the government's commitment to completing it within the next two and a half years.

He notes that eleven contractors are currently active on-site, emphasizing the project's potential to transform the regional economy. In response to rising Miraa prices, Kindiki attributes the increase to strategic interventions by President Ruto’s administration. He rejects claims of coincidence and underlines the government’s initiatives to bolster Miraa farmers, alongside similar support for the dairy, tea, coffee, macadamia, and cotton sectors, which have seen reported increases in earnings.

Concluding his address, Kindiki has shared details of his engagements with leaders from multiple counties, including Embu, Taita Taveta, Kajiado, Tharaka Nithi, Isiolo, Samburu, and Kiambu. He has further committed to consulting with representatives from the remaining 39 counties over the next two months to reinforce the government's dedication to inclusive development and economic transformation throughout Kenya.