Border Visit Ordered: Trade Minister to Clarify Maize Export Standoff with Kenya
In a move to ascertain the accuracy of claims surrounding a purported ban on maize exports from Uganda to Kenya, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa has instructed the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives to conduct an on-site visit to maize traders operating at the border between the two nations.
Tayebwa’s directive stemmed from a response given by the Minister of State for Trade, Hon. Harriet Ntabazi, regarding the alleged ban on maize exports from Uganda to Kenya. Ntabazi, in reply to concerns raised by Busia Municipality Member of Parliament, Hon. Geofrey Macho, asserted that there is no official ban imposed by the Kenyan government on maize exports from Uganda.
“Trade between Uganda and Kenya continues to be handled smoothly, with exports averaging US$30 million annually over the past three years,” stated Ntabazi. She further clarified that, within the East African Community (EAC), standardized grain regulations, including those for maize, must be adhered to by all exporters before proceeding with exportation.
Regarding wheat, Ntabazi clarified that Uganda predominantly imports wheat and does not engage in significant wheat exports to Kenya or any other parts of the EAC due to being a deficit producer.
Despite Ntabazi’s assurances, Deputy Speaker Tayebwa emphasized the necessity for the minister to engage directly with traders at the border to validate her statement to Parliament. Tayebwa granted a two-week timeframe, citing the urgency of the matter and highlighting the international relations aspect involved. He advised the minister to communicate with counterparts from the Kenyan government.
This call for action followed concerns expressed by lawmakers who found the minister’s statement lacking in addressing the broader perspective of international relations. Independent Sheema County South Representative, Hon. Elijah Mushemeza, stressed the importance of free movement of goods for East African integration. He suggested that the Trade Minister collaborate with the Minister of EAC and the President to address the issue.
Hon. Peter Okeyoh of NRM, Bukooli Island County, highlighted the plight of farmers in Busia, emphasizing that they are facing challenges due to the reported restriction on maize exports to Kenya.
Kashongi County MP, Hon. Herbert Tayebwa, expressed concern over the sharp decline in maize prices, attributing it to the alleged ban on maize exportation to Kenya. He called for an explanation, questioning why prices were decreasing despite the demand not being surpassed by production.
Butembe County Representative, Hon. David Zijjan, added a new dimension to the discussion, stating that while there may not be a direct ban on maize exportation to Kenya, the Kenyan government has prohibited the issuance of permits to millers for importing maize from any country, including Uganda.
