Maize farmers across the country have a reason to smile after the Ministry of Agriculture directed Kenya Seed to review the prices of seeds downwards.
Farmers from the North Rift region are preparing for a new planting season, with rains expected to start in March.
However, there have been concerns over the cost of production, with prices of maize seeds almost doubled from the previous season.
But in a letter to Kenya Seed Managing Director Sammy Chepsiror, the ministry has directed that the prices used in the last two seasons be retained.
“The government through the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development has received several requests from farmers concerning increased prices of maize seeds for 2025 long rains planting season,” read part of the letter dated February 25, 2025.
“Upon consultation with your institution and other organs of the government and taking into consideration the government plan on food security, the Ministry is directing that the prices of maize seeds, for 2025 long rain season, be retained as per previous year 2024,” the letter added.
Prices of maize seeds for 2025 planting season
The new directive means a 1-kilogram packet of maize seed will now cost Ksh 210, while the 2kg packet will retail at Ksh 420.
In addition, a 10-kg packet will be sold at Ksh 2,100 and Ksh 5,250 for a packet of 25 kilograms.
“The above prices take effect immediately,” the ministry told Kenya Seed MD.
“Ensure that appropriate measures are put in place to disseminate the communication in good time to seed producers, distributors, farmers and the general public,” added the government in the letter.
The planting season for maize in the North Rift region starts in early March. Most farmers have already tilled their land, waiting for the long rains to start.
