By R, KNA
Entry of this season’s maize harvests within some parts of West Pokot County have seen two different price tags for dry maize forcing consumers to weigh options when buying the commodity which is basic for every household in the region.
Within Kapenguria town, the previous years’ maize is fetching more on the retail market, Sh20 higher as compared to this year’s one which is becoming abundant in supply.
The rationale behind the price differences, some residents argue, arises from the customers’ preferences of the old maize which currently a 2kg tin popularly known as gorogoro is going at Sh150.
With Sh145 one is sure of having a 2kg pack of maize flour, thanks to the new maize harvest which according to users, has been dried while still not mature hence the moisture content is still high.
“I prefer last season’s maize because even during milling you lose less. Also when it comes to cooking you need little flour and your gruel is ready, as opposed to this season’s maize,” said Carren Chepoton.
She said even if the price difference is a bit noticeable, going for last season’s maize is worth the price although its availability is scarce.
Chepoton however noted that there are some unscrupulous maize vendors who mix the old stock and the new one and price it highly because of the huge demand for the brand.
Those dictated by the size of their pockets hold that they don’t mind going for the cheapest brand because they have to live within their means.
“The maize from the semi-arid areas within the county is quite good and very little difference with last season’s one. They matured early and also got enough sunshine for drying,” said Mercy Cheruto.
Cheruto argued that this season’s maize once adequately dried tastes the same as the last season’s one, hence still worthy.
She said the Sh20 can make a big difference on her diet because gruel always attracts accompaniments which the amount can make.
Residents project that the maize prices will not go below Sh100 because of the increasing demand saying like previous years the trend has been the same even if the full harvest season may extend owing to the heavy rains that has been ongoing within the area.
They also said maize from other regions is yet to hit the market because of the likely delay in harvesting.