National average price spreads for maize across select East African countries

Based on data from the World Food Programme (WFP), South Sudan is reporting the highest maize prices in the Eastern African region, with a steep 23% month-on-month increase to USD 1,043.2/MT.

This is indicative of persistent macroeconomic instability, driven by a significant depreciation of the national currency that has exerted upward pressure on cereal prices10.

According to data compiled and analysed by the Kenya Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Department (KAMIS), maize prices slightly stabilised in July after several months of continuous increase, an average of USD 520/MT, a 1% decrease from the previous month as the country enters its major harvest season.

Tanzania and Uganda recorded low to moderate maize price increases in USD terms by 2% to USD 311/MT and 12% to USD 500/MT.

These movements are largely attributed to the appreciation of local currencies against the United States Dollar, which has influenced trade dynamics and pricing in regional agricultural markets.

Conversely, Rwanda experienced a slight 3% price decrease month-on-month to USD 399/MT, indicating the increased supply due to Season B Maize harvests.