Maize Sheller Prices in Kenya (2025 Update) – Types, Manual vs Machine, and Where to Buy
- BeyondForest
- Sep 17
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 1
Image of John Mburu posing infront of Maize Shellers
4.)Factors Affecting Maize Sheller Prices
5.)Benefits of Using a Maize Sheller
6.)Maintenance and Safety Tips on Maize Shellers
A maize sheller is an essential post-harvest machine designed to remove maize kernels from the cob quickly and efficiently. Traditionally, shelling was done by hand, which is time-consuming and often leads to high grain breakage and post-harvest losses. Maize shellers solve this problem by using mechanical or motorized systems to separate kernels with minimal damage, improving the quality of grains ready for milling or sale.
There are several types of maize shellers, including manual hand-held shellers, motorized shellers powered by petrol, diesel, or electricity, and tractor PTO-driven shellers ideal for large-scale farms.
Manual shellers are cheap and portable, making them suitable for smallholder farmers, while motorized shellers can process up to several tons per hour, reducing labor costs significantly.
A 7.5 Horse Power Maize sheller has the capacity of shelling 25 ,90 Kilogram bags per hour
Types of Maize Shellers
Image of a Manual Maize Sheller shelling a Comb of Maize
Maize shellers come in three main types: manual, motorized, and tractor PTO-driven. Manual shellers are small, hand-operated tools ideal for smallholder farmers processing a few bags at a time.
Image of a Diesel Maize Sheller 10 Horse Power costing 60,000Ksh
Motorized shellers use petrol, diesel, or electric motors and can process 10–30 bags per hour, making them perfect for medium-scale farms and cooperatives. Tractor PTO shellers attach to a tractor’s power take-off system, offering the highest capacity for large-scale farmers and commercial operations.
Image of a Petrol Driven Maize Sheller 7.5 Horse Power
Maize Sheller Prices in Kenya (2025 Update)
On Jiji Kenya, there are around 250-270 listings for maize shellers, ranging from simple manual units to more advanced motorized and PTO (power take-off) driven machines .Prices vary widely depending on capacity, motor power, type, and whether the machine is brand new or uses a motor.
For example, you’ll find a “Complete Maize Sheller With 8.5 Horse Power Honda Engine, portable, up to 15 bags per hour” listed in Nairobi for about Ksh39,500, with a 12‐month warranty. There are cheaper electric/manual options too some Milano electric shellers with 7.5 Horse Power motors going for Ksh25,000-30,000. At the higher end, a tractor PTO maize sheller can cost Ksh110,000.
Factors Affecting Maize Sheller Prices
The price of a maize sheller depends on several key factors. Capacity is the most significant — shellers that process more bags per hour cost more.
Image of a PTO driven Sheller for sale
Type and power source also matter; manual shellers are cheapest, while motorized and PTO shellers are more expensive due to higher efficiency. Build quality and brand reputation influence cost, with durable, well-known brands commanding a premium. Motor size and fuel type (petrol, diesel, or electric) affect both initial price and operating costs. Availability of spare parts, warranty, and after-sales service can also increase prices but offer long-term value for farmers.
Image of an Imported Maize Sheller
Benefits of Using a Maize Sheller
Using a maize sheller significantly improves post-harvest efficiency. It saves time by shelling multiple bags of maize per hour, compared to labor-intensive hand shelling. This reduces labor costs and allows farmers to prepare grain faster for storage or sale.
Maize shellers also minimize kernel breakage, resulting in higher-quality grain and better market prices. They help reduce post-harvest losses, ensuring more food security and profitability. Additionally, modern shellers are designed with safety and ease of use in mind, making them convenient for both smallholder and large-scale farmers. Overall, maize shellers boost productivity and improve farm operations.
Maintenance and Safety Tips on Maize Shellers
Clean after use: Remove maize residues and dust to prevent rust and clogging.
Lubricate moving parts: Apply oil/grease regularly to reduce wear and tear.
Inspect belts and bolts: Tighten loose parts and replace worn-out components.
Check motor and power source: Ensure proper fuel levels or electrical connections before use.
Use protective gear: Wear gloves, goggles, and closed shoes to avoid injuries.
Keep hands clear: Never insert hands while the sheller is running.
Store properly: Cover and keep in a dry place to prevent corrosion.
FAQ About Maize Shellers
Image of a 3 in 1 Bean thresher, Sorgum thresher, maize sheller costing Ksh 55000 only
How many bags can a maize sheller process per hour?
A motorized maize sheller can process 10–30 90 Kilogram bags per hour, while tractor PTO shellers can exceed 50 bags per hour, depending on model and power.
What are the different types of maize sheller?
The main types are manual shellers (handheld), motorized shellers (petrol, diesel, or electric powered), and tractor PTO shellers for large-scale operations.
Can a corn sheller be used for other grains?
Yes, some shellers can handle crops like sorghum, beans, and sunflower seeds, but you must adjust sieves for proper kernel size.
What is the capacity of maize sheller machine?
Capacity ranges from 500 kg/hr for small units to 3,000+ kg/hr for tractor-driven shellers.
How much is a maize shelling machine in Kenya?
Prices start around KSh 1,500 for manual shellers and go up to KSh 150,000+ for PTO-driven models.
Which is better, a diesel or electric maize sheller?
Diesel shellers are powerful and mobile, ideal for off-grid farms. Electric shellers are cheaper to run but require reliable power supply.
Where can I find maize sheller spare parts near me?
Spare parts are available from agrovet shops, machinery dealers, Jiji Kenya sellers, and local fabricators in major towns.
