The June Food and Nutrition Security Report reveals a surplus of 13.4 million 50kg bags of wheat. However, the private sector is set to import six million more 50kg bags over the next three months to meet ongoing demand.
Kenya’s wheat market is heavily reliant on imports, as the report highlights. “The quantities of imported wheat fluctuate based on demand and supply dynamics. Given that most wheat comes from European countries, global trade factors significantly influence these imports,” the report notes.
In June, wheat imports fell to 2.22 million 50kg bags, down from 6.87 million in May and three million in April. The variations in monthly import volumes are partly due to Russia’s adverse weather and instability in maritime routes, which affected the April and May shipments. Additionally, a new two percent import levy on cereals and pulses, effective July, triggered increased imports in anticipation of the new tax.
Kenya’s reliance on wheat imports is underscored by the average monthly import of 1.65 million 90kg bags (approximately 2.97 million 50kg bags), driven by limited local production.
Regarding domestic wheat cultivation, the report indicates that planting is underway in the northern Rift counties, with about 60% completed. In Narok and Nakuru counties, the crop is progressing from the vegetative to tillering stages, and is in good condition. Wheat is primarily grown in Narok, Meru, Uasin Gishu, Trans Nzoia, Laikipia, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, and Nyandarua counties.
