Farmers have welcomed President Kibaki's order to have the government release Sh3 billion for importation of subsidised fertiliser and for Kenya Seed Company to reduce the price of maize seed.

Speaking to the Star in Eldoret yesterday, Kenya Farmers Association director Kipkorir Menjo said the importation should be hastened because the planting season had already began.

National Cereals and Produce Board managing director Gideon Misoihas said they had received the presidents's order and it would be implemented immediately.

He said the board is committed to helping farmers despite the challenges it has been facing.

NCPB has been unable to import the subsidised fertiliser due to debt disputes. This has caused the price of 50kg bag to become Sh4,000 up from the Sh2,500 farmers usually buy from NCPB.

Sources at the Kenya Seed Company said they will follow the President's directive once they receive official communication from the Agriculture ministry.

Managing director Willy Bett was said to be in Nairobi to meet with ministry officials over the matter.