Government to set aside Sh4 billion for purchase of maize

By Peter Ochieng 

President William Ruto on Tuesday chaired a cabinet meeting at State House Nairobi, where a host of decisions were arrived at.

During the meeting, a decision was made for the government to set aside Sh4 billion meant for purchase of maize from farmers across the country, especially in Rift Valley.

The good news comes in the wake of media reports that businessmen from neighbouring Uganda and Tanzania were purchasing maize from farmers in the country at throw away prices, with a plan of selling back the commodity during scarcity.

Farmers are reporting a bumper harvest occassioned by the government subsidy on fertiliser effected early this year.

Additionally, the president directed ministries to cut their 2023/2024 budgets by 10 percent, in what he said was to align expenditures with available resources.

He added that wastage of public resources and corruption will not be tolerated under his administration.

Additionally, the Cabinet approved the Gambling Policy, 2023, the Gambling Control Bill, 2023, and the National Lottery Bill, 2023, which will be forwarded to Parliament for debate, with a view of coming up with legislation to transform the gambling sector in an economic giant for the benefit of Kenyans.

The end game is to strengthen regulation, address high taxation perceptions, and utilise technology for a responsible and thriving sector.

From a sporting front, the Cabinet endorsed the construction of a new 60,000-capacity stadium in preparation for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027.

The stadium known be known as Talanta.

The move comes days after the Conversations of African Football (CAF) granted Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania the 2027 hosting rights.

Nairobi and Eldoret have been fronted to host the matches. Renovations at the Moi International Sports Centre-Kasarani, Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi, and Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret are in the pipeline ahead of the continental tournament.