Kenya is making major strides toward self-sufficiency in rice production, thanks to ambitious irrigation projects aimed at transforming the country’s agricultural landscape. 

With ongoing investments in infrastructure and partnerships with private investors, the government is confident that Kenya will no longer need to import rice by 2032.

The country currently consumes over one million metric tonnes of rice annually, while local farmers produce about 270,000 metric tonnes. However, recent expansions in irrigation schemes, such as the Thiba Dam and the Bura irrigation project, have already contributed to increased yields. The Thiba Dam alone has helped push production from 190,000 to 270,000 metric tonnes, signaling the potential for even greater growth.

To accelerate this progress, the government is working with private investors to expand farming in areas like Galana Kulalu. A private company is set to begin farming on 5,400 acres in April 2025, with plans to expand irrigation to 200,000 acres. Additionally, the Al Dahra Group has signed an agreement to conduct technical studies for large-scale rice farming.

While the irrigation ministry requires Sh50.75 billion to complete all planned projects in the next financial year, only Sh18.86 billion has been allocated so far. 

The government is optimistic that development partners will help bridge the funding gap to ensure the timely completion of key projects like the Siyoi Muruny, Umaa, and Mwache Dams.

Principal Secretary for Irrigation Ephantus Kimotho emphasized the government’s commitment to making Kenya self-sufficient in rice production. 

“When Kenya Kwanza came to power, the country was producing 190,000 metric tonnes of rice, which has since increased to 270,000 metric tonnes,” he said. “With continued investment in irrigation, we will achieve full self-sufficiency by 2032.”

The expansion of irrigation and modern farming techniques is not only expected to reduce the country’s reliance on imports but also improve food security, create jobs, and boost local economies.