Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has announced that, for the first time in 16 years, Kenya will not import maize in 2025. Similarly, the country will cease sugar imports for the first time in 22 years, marking a significant milestone in food self-sufficiency.

Speaking at his official residence in Karen during a consultative meeting with Meru County leaders and stakeholders, Kindiki attributed the achievement to government interventions aimed at boosting local agricultural production.

“When we assumed office in 2022, Kenya had to import 10 million bags of maize. The following year, that figure dropped to around seven million. Today, for the first time in 16 years, we will not import even a single bag of maize,” he stated.

The Deputy President highlighted that subsidized fertilizer and other strategic interventions have strengthened Kenya’s maize production, ensuring domestic supply meets demand.

On sugar, Kindiki noted that Kenya has produced over 900,000 metric tonnes this year, close to the national consumption of one million metric tonnes.

“For the first time in 22 years, Kenya will not import sugar. If we did, it would be less than 100,000 metric tonnes, meaning we are now sugar-sufficient,” he affirmed.

Kindiki emphasized that the government remains committed to stabilizing prices of essential goods, fuel, and economic indicators such as inflation and exchange rates.

“We are working hard to maintain affordable food prices, stabilize interest rates, and manage inflation because these are the pillars of macroeconomic stability,” he concluded.

His remarks signal a shift in Kenya’s agricultural landscape, as the country moves toward reducing reliance on imports and strengthening food security.