Government Reverses Maize Seed Price Hike After Farmers’ Protests
The Kenyan government has instructed the Kenya Seed Company (KSC) to review maize seed prices following widespread complaints from farmers and traders.
Government Responds to Farmers’ Concerns
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development formally acknowledged receiving grievances from farmers over the increased cost of maize seeds. In a directive to KSC Managing Director Sammy Chepsiror, the ministry ordered the company to maintain last year’s prices to shield farmers and merchants from financial strain.
“Farmers have repeatedly raised concerns with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development regarding the high cost of maize seeds ahead of the 2025 long rains planting season. After extensive consultations with relevant government bodies, the ministry has decided that maize seed prices for the 2025 long rains season should remain the same as in 2024,” the statement read.
New Prices and Food Security Agenda
Following the directive, the revised prices will be:
- 1kg of maize seeds – KSh 210
- 2kg of maize seeds – KSh 420
- 10kg of maize seeds – KSh 2,100
- 25kg of maize seeds – KSh 5,250
The ministry stated that the decision to retain prices aligns with the government’s commitment to ensuring food security by keeping agricultural inputs affordable for farmers.
Implementation and Warnings Against Fraud
Kenya Seed Company was tasked with informing farmers, distributors, and the general public about the adjusted prices, which took effect on February 25. This move aims to prevent unscrupulous dealers from overcharging farmers.
The long rains season, spanning from March to May, is a crucial period for maize planting across the country. Ensuring that farmers access affordable and genuine seeds is a priority for the government.
Crackdown on Counterfeit Seeds
In response to growing concerns over fake seeds in the market, the government also directed KSC to ensure that only genuine maize seeds are distributed. Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe proposed stricter penalties, suggesting a minimum 10-year prison sentence without the option of a fine for individuals caught selling counterfeit seeds.
Previous Price Hike and Farmers’ Reactions
The decision to maintain last year’s prices comes after farmers and traders protested a steep increase in maize seed prices announced by KSC in November 2024.
KSC had justified the price hike, citing market instability and rising production costs. Under the revised prices before the government’s intervention:
- 2kg of maize seeds had jumped from KSh 420 to KSh 600
- 10kg of maize seeds had surged from KSh 2,100 to KSh 3,000
Following pressure from stakeholders, the government stepped in to reverse the hike, ensuring affordability for farmers as they prepare for the planting season.
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Government Reverses Maize Seed Price Hike After Farmers’ Protests
