Kenya’s reliance on imports continues to undermine its food security and contribute to economic deficits, according to Investments, Trade, and Industry CS Lee Kinyanjui. Speaking on Spice FM, Kinyanjui emphasized that excessive dependence on foreign goods, including food, fuels national debt.
He highlighted that Kenya imports nearly 90% of its wheat despite having suitable conditions for cultivation in areas like Nakuru, Eldoret, and Nanyuki. Currently, local wheat production barely reaches 40% of its potential.
The CS also pointed out that many farmers struggle due to unpredictable market conditions, making it hard to secure loans or plan production effectively. He likened agriculture to a “casino business,” where farmers gamble on prices without assurance of returns.
Kinyanjui stressed that the government must take responsibility for reversing this trend. His ministry, in collaboration with the Agriculture Ministry and other stakeholders, is working towards enhancing food production and reducing reliance on imports to achieve self-sufficiency.
