The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has clarified that Kenya produces only about 20% of its rice requirements, relying on imports for the remaining 80%.
Speaking at the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) stores in Kirinyaga County, he emphasized that imported rice will only be brought in after local supplies are fully absorbed.
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Kagwe addressed concerns over uncollected rice in the Mwea Irrigation Scheme, explaining that logistical issues in Mwea do not reflect the country’s overall rice availability.
“Having 5,000 bags sitting in Mwea doesn’t mean Kenya has enough rice nationally. It simply means those specific bags haven’t been picked up yet,” he said.
The CS added that critics of rice imports often misunderstand the supply and demand dynamics. “Some argue we shouldn’t import rice because there are 5,000 bags locally. But that’s only 20% of our total needs,” he noted.
Kagwe encouraged farmers and investors to expand rice production, noting that the NCPB is capable of handling higher volumes.
He also highlighted similar challenges with wheat, pointing out that Kenya produces only 10% of its national requirement. The government has established policies to prioritize local wheat before allowing imports.
To boost productivity and farmer incomes, the Ministry is carrying out a nationwide soil mapping exercise.
