Kenya's Wheat Crisis: A Growing Threat to Food Security

Kenya's wheat production has been declining sharply in recent years, leaving the country heavily reliant on imports. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, domestic wheat production fell by 18.2% to 254,900 tonnes in 2025, while imports reached 2.24 million tonnes.

This has significant implications for food security, climate resilience, and public health. Wheat is a staple crop in Kenya, used to make bread, chapati, mandazi, pasta, and other essential foods. It's also fortified with micronutrients like iron and folic acid to combat deficiencies.

Vincent Chelule, a wheat farmer from Chesoton, Njoro, has witnessed the industry's decline firsthand. Rising production costs, unpredictable weather, and uncertain markets have made it challenging for farmers to make a profit.