The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Farmers from the Mwea Irrigation Scheme in Kirinyaga County have strongly opposed the government’s plan to import 500,000 metric tonnes of rice by the end of the year.
The government, through a gazette notice issued by Cabinet Secretary for Treasury John Mbadi, directed the importation of Grade 1 milled white rice duty-free by 31st December 2025. Mbadi confirmed that this decision was made following recommendations from Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe.
However, local farmers, led by John Munene and Pius Njogu from the Thiba section, are raising concerns that this move will hurt their market, especially as they have large stocks stored at the Mwea Rice Growers Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MRGM).
“We oppose the decision because the influx of imported rice is undermining the market for our locally grown rice,” Munene explained.
Kirinyaga Senator James Kamau Murango criticized the government for prioritizing rice imports over addressing the needs of local farmers. He pointed out that while the government had promised to purchase rice from the Mwariko stores—over 50,000 bags—farmers are still waiting for their May payouts and subsidized fertilizers for the next planting season.
“Farmers are being left behind, with no purchase of their rice, yet the government is focusing on imports,” Murango said.
Farmers claim that their produce remains unsold in MRGM stores due to a lack of market demand, and they argue that the previous administration under Uhuru Kenyatta used to purchase rice from farmers before allowing imports.
Senator Murango has urged the government to suspend the importation plan and focus on buying local stocks first.
“Two months ago, I moved between government offices trying to secure a purchase for 50,000 bags of rice at MRGM Mwariko stores, and while officials gave assurances, 15,000 bags remain unsold,” Murango added.