In this post we will look at
3.)Single-Phase Posho Mills
4.)Three-Phase Posho Mills
5.)Natasha Posho Mill
6.)Advantages of Natasha Posho Mill
7.)Diesel Posho Mills
8.)Electric Posho Mills
9.)Combined Posho Mills
10.)Grade 1 Posho Mills
12.)Posho mill in Swahili
13.)Challenges Facing Posho Mill Businesses
15.)List of Diesel Posho mill
17)Key Features of Roller Mills
18.)List of Electric Posho Mill prices in Kenya
19.)List of Posho Mill sellers on JIJI
20.)Posho Mill on loan
21.)FAQ about Posho Mill
Image of a Grade 2 Natasha diesel posho mill machine
A posho mill is an essential machine in Kenya, especially in rural areas, where it is used to grind maize into flour (or "posho") a staple food product for most households. Posho mills play a crucial role in food security, income generation, and poverty reduction in Kenya. In Kenya, maize flour (known as "unga") is a staple ingredient used to prepare a traditional dish called ugali.
Because of this, posho mills have become a vital part of the Kenyan economy, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas where milling services are more accessible than packaged flour. These machines allow households to mill maize grains into flour on demand, saving money compared to purchasing pre-milled flour from supermarkets.
There are several types of posho mills available in Kenya, each serving a unique purpose and designed to meet different needs. The main types include:
Image of a Natasha posho mill diesel engine
Single-Phase Posho Mills
Three-Phase Posho Mills
Diesel Posho Mills
Electric Posho Mills
Grade 1 Posho Mills
Grade 2 Posho Mills
Combined Posho Mills
Image of a Natasha Posho Mill 10HP by Posho Mill Fabricator Nakuru
Single-Phase Posho Mills
Image of a single phase posho mill by Posho Mill Fabricator Nakuru
Single-phase posho mills are widely used for domestic or small-scale milling needs and have a power source of commonly 240 volts .These mills use a single-phase electrical connection, which is common in most Kenyan households. and Ideal for small-scale milling, typically processing small quantities of maize for household use. The Single phase posho mill come in three types of horse power mainly 5.5 Horse power which cost 65,000Ksh ,7.5 horse power which cost 70,000Ksh and 10 horse power which cost 75,000Ksh
Image of a grade 2 single phase electric posho mill by Posho Mill Fabricator Nakuru.
.Advantages of Single phase posho mill is that they are generally compact, affordable, and relatively easy to operate, making them suitable for rural or low-income households. The only Disadvantages of Single phase posho Mill is that they are Less powerful than three-phase mills, which limits their efficiency and speed when processing larger volumes of maize.
Image of a grade 2 single phase electric posho mill by Posho Mill Fabricator Nakuru.
Image of a three phase posho mill by George Odipo
Three-phase posho mills are designed for commercial or higher-volume milling with a power source of 415 volts These machines are more powerful than single-phase models and can process larger amounts of maize, making them suitable for people looking to run a milling business ,Institutions or serve a larger community.
Image of a Posho mill three phase
They require a three-phase power connection, which is often available in more urbanized or commercially active areas. The Advantages of three phase posho mill is that they are Faster, more efficient, and capable of processing large quantities of maize in shorter time frames. Major
Disadvantages of three phase posho mill include Higher initial cost and the need for three-phase power, which may not be available in some rural areas.
Image of a Natasha diesel posho mill machine for grade 2 that cost 145,000Ksh
The Natasha posho mill is a popular brand in Kenya known for its reliability, efficiency, and affordability. It is widely used in both domestic and commercial settings across Kenya, catering to households, small-scale farmers, and entrepreneurs looking to venture into the maize milling business. Natasha posho mills come in various models to suit different milling needs and power requirements, with options for single-phase, three-phase, Combined Natasha Posho Mill and diesel-powered versions.
Advantages of Natasha Posho Mill
Cost-Effective
Affordable purchase price and low operational costs make Natasha mills a favorite for small-scale millers.
High-Quality Flour
Produces fine and evenly ground flour, ideal for ugali and other maize-based foods.
Support and Spare Parts
Widely available spare parts and easy access to maintenance services in Kenya.
Income-Generating Opportunity
For entrepreneurs, Natasha posho mills present an excellent opportunity to run a milling business and generate income in communities.
Image of a diesel posho mill by Posho mill fabricator Nakuru
Diesel-powered posho mills are popular in remote areas where electricity is unreliable or unavailable. Advantage of these mills is that they use a diesel engine instead of electricity, making them an ideal choice for areas without a stable power supply. Major disadvantage of diesel posho mill is that they are often larger and louder than electric mills and emit pollutants, which can be a concern for air quality.
Image of a 7.5HP JANGDONG diesel posho mill by Farm machinery Posho Mill which Cost 75,000
Electric Posho Mills
Electric posho mills are powered solely by electricity and are among the most commonly used mills in Kenya. These mills are versatile and convenient for users with reliable access to electricity, as they are often quieter and require less maintenance than diesel-powered models.
Combined Posho Mills
Combined posho mills can grind maize into flour and process other grains or cereals like wheat or millet. Power source for combined posho mill can either be electric or diesel depending on the setup . Some combined Posho mills also include a huller for removing the bran from grains, making them highly versatile and appealing for users who wish to process various types of grain.
Image of a combined posho Mill by Dan Munga Machinery
Combined posho mill are Ideal for businesses or households that want flexibility in processing different grains. Major Advantages of the combined posho mill is Versatilty, as they can process multiple types of grains. while major disadvantage is higher initial cost and requires more space for operation.
Grade 1 Posho Mills
Grade 1 posho mills produce high-quality flour that is more refined compared to flour from traditional mills. The grade 1 posho mill is powered using a higher powered motor either single or three phase These mills remove more bran, husks, and other coarse parts from the maize grain, resulting in finer, smoother flour which is premium and commands a higher price This type of flour is ideal for urban markets, where consumers often prefer a finer product. Major Disadvantages is that it Requires more investment, both in terms of cost and maintenance.
Grade 2 posho mill
A Grade 2 posho mill is a type of milling machine in Kenya that produces coarser maize flour compared to the finer flour produced by a Grade 1 posho mill. The Grade 2 flour contains more bran and fiber, making it a healthier and more traditional option for many consumers. These mills are highly popular in rural and low-income urban areas, where coarser maize flour is preferred for its affordability, texture, and nutritional content.
Posho Mill is referred to as Kisiagi in swahili. And if you tell someone "umeenda kwa kisiagi "they will know you have gone to get the maize milled
Challenges Facing Posho Mill Businesses
Electricity Costs: Operating an electric posho mill can be costly, especially with fluctuating electricity prices in Kenya. High operational costs eat into profit margins and can make it difficult for operators to remain competitive.
Competition with Packaged Flour: The availability of affordable, packaged flour from supermarkets and large milling companies poses a competitive threat to posho mills, especially in urban areas.
Maintenance and Repairs: Regular maintenance is essential to keep posho mills running efficiently, but parts and skilled technicians can be difficult to find in rural areas.
Seasonal Fluctuations in Maize Supply: Maize production in Kenya is seasonal, and availability can be affected by weather conditions. During periods of low maize supply, posho mills may struggle to operate at full capacity.
Environmental Concerns: Diesel-powered posho mills contribute to air pollution and have a larger environmental footprint. As awareness of environmental issues grows, there may be increasing pressure on diesel mill operators to adopt cleaner energy sources.
Posho Mill Price List
Electric 5 Horsepower Grade 2 Posho Mill | 62,500Ksh |
Electric 7.5 Horse power Grade 2 Poshomill | 70,000Ksh |
10 Horse power Electric Grade 2 Poshomill | 75,000Ksh |
Combined Electric /Diesel Grade 1 and 2 7.5 HP | 123,000Ksh |
Combined Electric /Diesel Grade 1 and 2 10 HP | 127,000Ksh |
Combined Electric and Diesel Grade 2 small | 95,000Ksh |
Combined Electric and Diesel Grade 2 Big | 105,000Ksh |
Separated Grade 1 and 2 Electric 2 motors | 135,000Ksh |
Diesel Posho Mill China Jiadong 7.5 HP | 70,000Ksh |
Diesel Poshomill India 10 HP | 140,000Ksh |
Multipurpose feed chopper petrol 22HP | 37,000Ksh |
Multipurpose feed chopper Electric HP | 40,000Ksh |
Multipurpose feed chopper Diesel 22HP | 63,000Ksh |
Chuffcutter | 55,000Ksh |
Roller Mill plus Crusher | 395,000Ksh |
Maize Sheller Diesel | 65,000Ksh |
Feed Mixer 1/4 tonnes | 100,000Ksh |
Feed Mixer 1/2 tonnes | 170,000Ksh |
Feed Mixer 1 tonnes | 240,000Ksh |
Sorghum Thresher | 50000Ksh |
Maize Sheller Petrol | 40,000Ksh |
List of Diesel Posho mill prices in Kenya
Roller Mills
Roller mills are advanced milling machines commonly used in grain processing industries and help all the grade 1&2 queries , particularly in the production of flour. Unlike traditional posho mills, which use grinding stones, roller mills utilize pairs of metal rollers that crush and grind grains into a fine, uniform texture. Production rate ranges between 300 Kilogram per hours to 1600 Kilograms per hour or 400 bags a day
Image of a roller mill
Roller milling technology allows for high efficiency, consistency, and scalability in producing refined products like wheat flour, maize flour, and various other cereals. These mills are widely used in large-scale flour milling operations and provide superior quality flour compared to traditional methods. It mills high quality Unga (flour) number one due to its unique high speed beaters.
Image of a roller mill and Hauller
Key Features of Roller Mills
Image of a Roller mill with crusher by Eunice Ngingi costing 375,000Ksh
Metal Rollers: Roller mills use one or more pairs of heavy metal rollers that rotate at different speeds to crush and grind grains with precision.
Adjustable Grinding Fineness: These mills can produce varying levels of fineness, from coarse meal to very fine flour, by adjusting the roller gap.
High Efficiency and Throughput: Roller mills process large quantities of grain quickly, making them ideal for high-capacity milling facilities.
Multi-Stage Milling: Many roller mills have multiple stages, with each pair of rollers grinding the grain progressively finer until it reaches the desired texture.
Separation of Byproducts: Roller milling allows for easy separation of bran, germ, and endosperm, which is crucial in producing refined flours and other byproducts.
List of Electric Posho Mill prices in Kenya
Grade 1 and 2 electric driven posho mill with MAIZE HULLER OF MUTHOKOI. | 135,000Ksh |
Grade 1 &2 posho millWith both electric motor and diesel engine for backup. | 160,000Ksh |
Grade 2 electric posho mill | 65,000Ksh |
GRADE 1 SPECIAL SIFTED UNGA, Roller Mill with its pre-crusher 400Kgs per hour | 410,000Ksh |
Grade 1 and 2 duo mill With motor and a diesel engine | 95,000Ksh |
Grade 2 posho mill powered by 5.5 HP | 63,000Ksh |
70,000Ksh | |
Duo posho mill with electric 5Hp diesel 7 HP | 98,000Ksh |
Duo posho mill i.e electric 7.5 HP ,diesel 7.5 HP | 110,000Ksh |
A 2 pistons, 25 HP Lister Engines. Lister Engines are good for expansive irrigation ,water pumping and even posho mill.
Average price 90,000 f
62,500Ksh | |
Electric 7.5 Horse Poer Grade 2 Posho Mill | 70,000Ksh |
10Horse Power Electric Grade 2 Posho Mill | 75,000Ksh |
Combined Electric or Diesel Grade 1 and 2 7.5 Horse Power | 123,000Ksh |
127,000Ksh | |
Combined Electric and Diesel Grade 2 Small | 95,000Ksh |
Combined Electric and Diesel Grade 2 Big | 105,000Ksh |
Combined Diesel and Electric Grade 1 and 2 7.5Horse Power | 170,000Ksh |
Separate Grade 1 and Grade 2 Electric 2 Motors | 145,000Ksh |
70,000 Ksh | |
Diesel Posho Mills China Jiadong 10 Horse Power | 80,000Kshh |
Diesel Posho Mills India 10 Horse Power | 140,000Ksh |
Multipurpose Feed Chopper Petrol | 37,000Ksh |
395,000Ksh | |
ChaffCutter | 55,000Ksh |
Maize Sheller Diesel | 65,000Ksh |
Maize Sheller Petrol | 40,000Ksh |
50,000Ksh | |
Feed Mixer 1/2 Tonne | 170,000Ksh |
Multipurpose Feed Chopper Electric | 40,000Ksh |
Multipurpose Feed Chopper Diesel 22 Horse Power | 170,000Ksh |
Feed Mixer 1/4 Tonne | 100,000Ksh |
240,000Ksh |
List of Posho Mill sellers on JIJI
Posho Mill 2hp Motor | 55,000Ksh |
Diesel Posho Mill 10 HP | 165,000Ksh |
2KG POSHO MILL | 8,000Ksh |
Electric Posho Mill | 155,000Ksh |
Lenhard Germany Maize Milling Machine | 89,000Ksh |
Combined Grade 1 and 2 Posho Mill | 140,000Ksh |
Complete Diesel Engine Posho Mill | 95,000Ksh |
7.5HP Posho Mill | 75,000Ksh |
Flair Grade1 Posho Mill | 140,000Ksh |
Grade 2 Single phase Posho Mill | 75,000Ksh |
Obtaining a posho mill on loan is an effective way for entrepreneurs, farmers, and small-scale millers in Kenya to start or expand their milling businesses without having to cover the high upfront cost. Many banks, microfinance institutions, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Kenya offer loans specifically for agricultural and small-business equipment, including posho mills
Image of a posho Mill Grade 1 and 2
Steps to Acquire a Posho Mill on Loan
Research Available Financing Options:
Look for banks, microfinance institutions, or NGOs offering loans for small businesses or agricultural projects.
Some Kenyan institutions that offer agricultural equipment loans include Equity Bank, Kenya Women Microfinance Bank (KWFT), KCB, Faulu Microfinance Bank, and various Sacco societies.
NGOs like the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) may also partner with financial institutions to offer subsidized loan programs for posho mills and other farming equipment.
Assess Eligibility Requirements:
Each lender has specific requirements, which may include:
A valid ID or passport.
Proof of residence or address.
Proof of income or a guarantor.
A solid business plan demonstrating the viability of the posho mill as a business or community service.
Some lenders may also require collateral, such as land, a vehicle, or savings.
Prepare a Business Plan:
A business plan is essential as it provides lenders with an overview of how you plan to use the posho mill, the expected customer base, anticipated revenue, and other operational aspects.
Your business plan should show how the posho mill will generate income and how you plan to repay the loan.
Apply for the Loan:
Approach the lender with your completed application, business plan, and any required documents.
Be prepared for an interview or further questions, as the lender may want to discuss your repayment capacity and business goals.
Purchase the Posho Mill:
Once approved, the lender will disburse the funds, either directly to you or to an approved supplier from whom you can purchase the posho mill.
Some financial institutions may have specific suppliers they prefer to work with to ensure quality and after-sales support for equipment.
Start Milling and Generate Revenue:
With your posho mill in operation, you can start serving customers, whether it’s local farmers, households, or small businesses in your area.
Keeping track of your income, expenses, and loan payments is essential for successful loan repayment and business growth.
Common Loan Terms and Conditions
Loan Amount:
Loan amounts can vary depending on the posho mill type, with smaller loans for single-phase mills and larger ones for three-phase or diesel-powered mills.
Generally, loans for posho mills range from Ksh 50,000 to Ksh 300,000.
Interest Rates:
Interest rates vary by institution but typically range from 10% to 15% per annum for agricultural and small-business loans.
Some organizations may offer subsidized or lower interest rates, especially for rural farmers or cooperatives.
Loan Repayment Period:
Repayment periods generally range from 6 months to 3 years, depending on the loan amount and lender policies.
Some lenders may offer flexible repayment plans that align with harvest seasons or other income cycles common to agricultural businesses.
Collateral:
Collateral requirements vary, but some lenders accept alternative forms of collateral, such as savings or membership in a Sacco.
Equity Bank: Offers agricultural loans that can cover equipment like posho mills, often with flexible terms for farmers and small business owners.
Kenya Women Microfinance Bank (KWFT): Provides loans for women entrepreneurs and farmers, supporting agricultural equipment purchases.
Agricultural Finance Corporation (AFC): Offers loans specifically designed for agricultural projects, including equipment financing for posho mills.
Sacco Societies: Various Saccos offer member-based loans with competitive rates, including funds for posho mill purchases.
NGO and Government Programs: Some NGO programs in Kenya offer subsidized financing or grants for posho mills and similar equipment to promote food security and rural development.
Benefits of Financing a Posho Mill on Loan
Affordable Entry into Milling Business: Loans reduce the upfront cost, enabling you to start a business without high initial expenses.
Income Generation: A posho mill can generate steady income, allowing you to repay the loan while sustaining yourself or expanding your business.
Enhanced Food Security: Posho mills support local communities by providing access to affordable milling services.
Business Growth: As demand for milling services increases, especially in rural areas, having a posho mill can lead to further business opportunities.
Disadvantages of Posho Mill on Loan
Loan Repayment Risk: Without consistent customers, loan repayment can be challenging. Effective marketing and community engagement can help increase demand.
Maintenance Costs: Posho mills require regular maintenance. Ensure that a portion of earnings is set aside for repairs.
Seasonal Demand: Milling demand can vary by season, so consider setting flexible repayment terms if possible.
The "Posho Mill Lipa Mdogo Mdogo" model for purchasing a posho mill, where customers pay in small installments, has more demand though not a verified vendor who can offer the service therefore comes with several potential disadvantages.
Image of a petrol engine maize sheller
Risk of Repossession
If payments are missed or delayed, the seller may repossess the posho mill. This could result in a loss of both the mill and any funds already paid.
Dependency on Steady Income
To keep up with frequent payments, a consistent cash flow is essential. In rural or low-income settings, where demand for milling services can be seasonal or inconsistent, making regular payments may become challenging.
Psychological Pressure
Frequent installment payments create financial pressure, especially if other unexpected expenses arise. This can strain a mill operator’s ability to reinvest earnings or expand the business.
Interest Rates and Hidden Charges
The "Lipa Mdogo Mdogo" model may come with hidden fees, administrative charges, or high-interest rates. These costs are not always fully disclosed and can lead to a much higher overall expense than initially anticipated.
Higher Overall Cost
The total cost is often higher than buying the posho mill upfront due to interest and fees included in the installment payments. These additional costs can add up over time, making the mill more expensive than its retail price.
How much does a posho mill cost in Kenya?
The cost of a posho mill in Kenya varies depending on the type, quality, power source, and capacity .For basic models, typically single-phase electric mills used for small-scale, domestic, or household milling, used for producing coarser flour the Price starts from Ksh 60,000 while more advanced mills such as Roller mills fetch starting 370,000Ksh
How much does it cost to start a posho mill business in Kenya?
Starting a posho mill business in Kenya can be a profitable venture, especially in areas with high demand for maize flour and affordable milling services. The initial cost will depend on the scale, equipment quality, location, and operating model you choose, the total estimated cost to start a posho mill business in Kenya can range from Ksh 300,000 to Ksh 1 million.
Here’s a breakdown of the potential expenses to watch out while starting a posho Mill business in Kenya
1. Posho Mill Equipment Cost
2. Additional Equipment and Setup Costs
3. Location and Rental Costs
4. Licenses and Permits
5. Operating Costs
6. Initial Stock and Working Capital
What is the difference between grade 1 and grade 2 posho mill?
The primary difference between Grade 1 and Grade 2 posho mills lies in the type of flour they produce, their milling processes, and their costs.A Grade 1 Posho Mill Produces fine, sifted flour similar to commercial-grade flour found in stores. The flour is sifted to remove husks and impurities, creating a smoother and whiter end product ,the Process used for Grade 1 mills is that they have an additional sifting component or a combined milling and hulling system that separates the bran from the endosperm. This process removes most of the bran and other coarse particles, leaving finer flour.
While for a Grade 2 Posho Mill it Produces whole-grain, unsifted flour that is coarse and has more fiber. The flour includes all parts of the maize kernel, including the germ and the bran the Process used by this type of mill simply grinds the maize kernel into flour without additional sifting or separation. The resulting flour is coarse, with a higher fiber content.
How much is a 90Kg bag of maize in Kenya?
The cost of Dry maize for sale for a 90 kilogram bag as of November 2024 is 2500Ksh
What are the different types of Posho mills?
Posho mills in Kenya come in various types, primarily based on their power source, milling mechanism, and the quality of flour they produce. List of the different types of posho mill include :
Single-Phase Posho Mills |
Three-Phase Posho Mills |
Diesel Posho Mills |
Electric Posho Mills |
Grade 1 Posho Mills |
Combined Posho Mills |
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