Water and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary (CS), Erick Mugaa, toured the ongoing irrigation projects in Mwea Subcounty.
This marks his third visit to the county as the government intensifies efforts to boost rice production and strengthen food security.
The CS inspected construction of a major irrigation canal in Mutithi Ward, a Sh1 billion project set to support irrigation for 4,000 acres.
Mugaa said the project, implemented by three contractors, is progressing well and expected to be completed by August 2026.
“This project is crucial for Mwea and for Kenya’s food security. It will expand the irrigation area, increase rice production, and reduce the national deficit, which currently stands at 700,000 metric tonnes,” Mugaa said.
Mugaa noted that rice farming in Mwea has improved significantly since the commissioning of the Thiba Dam, which allows farmers to plant three seasons a year instead of two seasons.
CS said the rice production so far has increased from 94,400 metric tonnes to 160,000 metric tonnes.
He added that the total irrigated area in Mwea has grown from 25,461 acres to 31,271 acres, reflecting government commitment to national food security.
“Mwea is already Kenya’s largest rice-producing region. This expansion will further boost production and transform the town into a 24-hour working economy, with milling, irrigation, transport, and markets running around the clock. It is one of the fastest-growing towns in the country,” Mugaa said.
The CS also highlighted the National Irrigation Sector Investment Plan, which is expected to unlock a 35% increase in agricultural productivity across Kenya.
Kirinyaga Deputy Governor David Githanda urged contractors to adhere strictly to timelines and quality standards.
“We expect high-quality work delivered within the agreed period. The county government will continue working hand in hand with the national government to strengthen irrigation and support farmers,” he said.
He also said the Kirinyaga County government has put aside 100 million to provide clean water for domestic use in Mwea.
Mwea MP, Mary Maingi dismissed claims that the Mwea Rice Mill is under threat of privatisation, reiterating that it remains fully owned by farmers.
“The mill is and will remain a farmers’ asset and the government will continue buying rice from our farmers before any importation is considered, protecting producers and stabilising prices,” she said.
Maingi emphasised that more resources are needed to support rice farming in Mwea. Saying she will continue working with the national government and President Ruto to ensure all challenges facing rice farmers are addressed.
“Working together, we can unlock Mwea’s full potential as a rice-producing hub and transform it into a sustainable economic powerhouse,” she said.
Peter Chege called on the government to fast-track the Nyamindi Dam, which he said would expand irrigation in Mwea West, including areas such as Kiamanyeki, and further boost rice production.
“We welcome the ongoing works, but as farmers we call for construction of Nyamindi Dam since it will be a game changer that will improve livelihoods and expand farmland. All we need is more water,” Chege said.
By David Wandeto
