NAIROBI, Kenya – The government has ordered maize seed prices to remain unchanged from last year’s rates in a move aimed at easing financial pressure on farmers ahead of the long rains planting season.
Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Ronoh, in a letter to Kenya Seed Company Managing Director, said the decision follows farmers’ concerns over rising input costs and aligns with the government’s broader food security agenda.
“Upon consultation with your institution and other government organs, and taking into consideration the government’s plan on food security, the ministry is directing that the prices for maize seeds for the 2025 long rains be retained at 2024 rates,” reads the letter dated February 25.
Under the directive, maize seed prices will remain as follows; 1kg – Ksh210, 2kg – Ksh420, 10kg – Ksh2,100, and 25kg – Ksh5,250
The new pricing takes effect immediately, with Ronoh directing Kenya Seed Company to ensure farmers, seed producers, and distributors are informed in good time.
The move is expected to support farmers by reducing production costs, thereby boosting maize output and enhancing food security.
The ministry is also exploring further interventions, including subsidies on seeds and other agricultural inputs.
“You are therefore required to submit a detailed costing for maize seed production to be considered under the subsidy programme,” Ronoh added.
The directive comes amid concerns over high farming costs, which have threatened food production in recent seasons.
Farmers will now benefit from stable seed prices as they prepare for the crucial planting period.
