Mwea: 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.

According to Kenya News Agency, the CS inspected the construction of a major irrigation canal in Mutithi Ward, a Sh1 billion project set to support irrigation for 4,000 acres. Mugaa stated that the project, implemented by three contractors, is progressing well and is 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, allowing farmers to plant three seasons a year instead of two. The CS highlighted that rice production has increased from 94,400 metric tonnes to 160,000 metric tonnes, and the total irrigated area in Mwea has grown from 25,461 acres to 31,271 acres, reflecting the government’s 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. He also highlighted the National Irrigation Sector Investment Plan, 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. Githanda also mentioned that the Kirinyaga County government has allocated 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 the need for more resources to support rice farming in Mwea and pledged to work with the national government and President Ruto to address challenges facing rice farmers.

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.