Disambiguating Maize Policy Failure in Kenya, 2013 – 2024: A Political Economy Perspective

This study conducts a political economy analysis of recent maize policies and programs in Kenya. It examines the persistent adoption of ineffective maize policies by the governments despite evident policy failures, which necessitate reconceptualization, reform or even termination. The research is based on desk review and policy content analysis, utilizing an interpretive methodology to present arguments and draw conclusions. Drawing on Bates’ (1981) political economy framework, the analysis unveils the political-economic dynamics shaping maize policies; concentrating on Uhuruto regime (2013-2022) and the radical policies implemented by current President Ruto during his first two years in office (2022-2024). Through four key analytical categories drawn from Bates conclusions, the paper interprets how the political contexts surrounding maize policy implementation hinder the achievement of maize food security. While existing research predominantly favors an ecological-economic-technical perspective, the study employs a political economy perspective to contextualize and explain the political motivations underpinning recent maize policy choices and the resulting persistent policy failures in Kenya. The study concludes that all maize-related decision-making and policy implementation are driven by political motivations aimed at maintaining the status quo of powerful political elites and their clients in key state-owned maize agencies. This provides their security, political survival through control of the hungry peasant masses and rent-seeking commercial maize enterprises dominating the market of agricultural factor of productions such as fertilizer dealers or companies. Study evidence shows that such a scenario is likely to continue stymying the transformation of Kenya from a food-and-feed-import-dependent country to a food-secure nation and a net food export country which it was before it experienced liberalization of agriculture. Political economy analysis thus provides a toolkit to situate the root of the country’s current maize challenges. The findings underscore the necessity of fundamental political transformation to facilitate effective maize policy outcomes. The empirical and theoretical recommendations provided in the paper shows how such a transformation may be attained.