Narok Maize Farmers Urged to Hold Off Selling at Low Prices
By Nicholas Rono
Rift Valley Chamber of Commerce Chairman, David Ole Mpaitany, has appealed to maize farmers in Narok to refrain from selling their harvests at extremely low prices straight from their farms. Speaking in Narok Town during an interview with Kass Digital, Mpaitany expressed concern over the increasing trend of farmers offloading their produce prematurely, including unripe maize, without considering the long-term effects.
He noted that this pattern of quick sales, often driven by immediate financial needs, puts both household food security and future income at risk. Mpaitany warned that if the situation continues unchecked, it could worsen the threat of hunger in the region and increase economic vulnerability among farming communities.
“Farmers need to store their maize properly and wait for favorable market prices,” he advised. “Rushing to sell at throwaway prices not only results in losses but also leaves many families without a fallback plan.”
He further urged farmers to consider the future when making financial decisions, encouraging them to manage their earnings wisely to avoid sliding into debt or poverty after harvest season ends.
Beyond agricultural concerns, Mpaitany highlighted the importance of education in rural communities. He called on parents to prioritize their children’s schooling, stressing that investing in education is a critical step toward breaking the cycle of poverty.
He also cautioned against unnecessary expenditures, urging families to adopt more disciplined spending habits to secure a better future.
His remarks come at a time when many households are grappling with the high cost of living, prompting some to sell their maize early to meet immediate needs. Mpaitany’s call serves as a reminder for long-term thinking and careful planning, especially in rural farming communities that heavily rely on seasonal harvests.
He reiterated the Chamber’s commitment to supporting local farmers through awareness and advocacy, aiming to foster both economic stability and food security in the region.
