On 10 January, the Government ordered the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) to purchase 2 million 90-kg bags from farmers at a price of KES 2 500 (USD 24.39) for a 90 kg bag, slightly up from last year’s level of KES 2 300 (USD 22.44) (FPMA Food Policies). In general, the state purchasing prices are based on prevailing market prices, domestic output, regional supplies and production costs, while maize is purchased through the Strategic Food Reserve (SFR) in coordination with the counties’ local governments. The 2018 main season harvest, gathered late last year, is estimated to be about 15 percent above average as a result of good seasonal rains.