The government has stepped in to address growing concerns by rice farmers under the Mwea Irrigation Scheme over the adverse impact of rice imports on local markets. Farmers recently staged protests, decrying the influx of imported rice, which they claim has undermined the sale of their locally produced grain.
In a high-level meeting held on Thursday at the Mwea Rice Growers Multipurpose Cooperative Society offices, government officials and key stakeholders agreed on immediate measures to safeguard the livelihoods of over 8,500 rice farmers in Kirinyaga and surrounding counties.
As part of the intervention, the Kenya National Trading Corporation (KNTC) committed to purchasing over 5,000 metric tonnes of locally grown rice, valued at approximately Sh500 million. This will offer much-needed market relief to the farmers, many of whom have struggled to sell last season’s harvest.
Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) Director General Bruno Linyiru announced that the Cooperative would receive full payment within a month of delivery—a marked improvement from previous delays that had hindered farmers’ operations and cash flow.
The meeting was attended by the Cooperative’s chairman Ndege Muriuki, Manager Antony Waweru, Food Crops Directorate Director Calistus Kundu, and KNTC Managing Director Lucy Anangwe. Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe directed AFA and KNTC to engage with local stakeholders to develop sustainable solutions.
While acknowledging the need for strategic imports due to the national rice deficit Kenya consumes about 100,000 metric tonnes of rice monthly Linyiru noted that only 191,000 metric tonnes were produced in the 2024/25 season. Imports since January stand at 94,000 metric tonnes, highlighting the continued need for supplementary imports.
To reduce dependence on imports, the government plans to expand irrigation schemes, increase rice acreage, promote upland rice farming, and introduce high-yield varieties.
The Cooperative raised concerns about unethical practices, such as repackaging imported rice as local brands. AFA, in collaboration with KEBS, pledged to crack down on such fraud.
Farmers appreciated government investments, particularly the Thiba Dam, which has enabled year-round rice cultivation, boosting productivity and hope for a more secure agricultural future.
