NAIROBI, Kenya — Rice farmers in Mwea and other major growing regions have received reassurance after cooperative leaders confirmed that all locally produced rice delivered to government agencies has been fully purchased and paid for.
The update comes amid growing public debate over rice imports and concerns that local producers may face delayed payments or stock build-up—issues that have previously triggered unrest among farmers.
The confirmation was made during a high-level government visit to the Mwea Rice Growers Multipurpose Co-operative Society (MRGM).
The delegation was led by Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) Director General Bruno Linyiru and included senior officials from the Agriculture Ministry, National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB), and Kenya National Trading Corporation (KNTC).
During the tour, officials inspected MRGM storage facilities and assessed rice uptake, payment status, and farmer concerns.
MRGM officials said farmers have been offloading rice without delays and that payments have been processed promptly and in full.
“Offloading of stocks has been ongoing, and we have no complaint. Payment was done as agreed by KNTC,” said MRGM Managing Director Anthony Waweru.
Waweru further noted that the cooperative carried over less than one percent of rice stock from 2025 into 2026—marking a major improvement from the 30 percent carry-over reported the previous year.
“As of 31st December, I can confirm that KNTC has paid for all rice that was delivered. Based on our projections, KNTC is ready to take up all the rice that farmers bring,” he added.
Mwea Rice Maintains Premium Market Status
MRGM, established in 1964, is Kenya’s oldest and largest rice cooperative. It represents growers within the Mwea Irrigation Scheme, which produces about 65% of Kenya’s rice.
The cooperative dismissed claims that rice imports are negatively impacting local farmers, noting that Mwea Pishori occupies a premium niche that does not directly compete with cheaper imported varieties.
“Our rice is niche and premium. There is no competition between imported rice and locally produced Pishori,” said Waweru.
Imported non-basmati rice typically sells between Sh80 and Sh100 per kilo, while Mwea Pishori retails at Sh140 to Sh160 due to its aroma and quality.
Production Rising, But Local Output Still Below Demand
Rice production in Kenya has been rising steadily:
- 2022: 123,916 MT
- 2023: 137,438 MT
- 2024: 169,291 MT
In 2026, paddy production is projected to reach 302,000 MT, equivalent to about 181,200 MT of milled rice.
Despite this growth, domestic production still meets less than 20% of national demand, making imports necessary to stabilise supply.
Government data shows that 250,000 MT of rice imported in late 2025 helped reduce prices. However, over 95% of imports are non-basmati, which do not affect the premium Pishori market.
Government Reaffirms Structured Marketing and Prompt Payment
Officials reaffirmed the government’s commitment to structured marketing to prevent exploitation of farmers.
Through NCPB and KNTC, the state has assured that all locally produced paddy and milled rice offered for sale will be purchased and paid for within 30 days.
“This ensures every available bag of locally produced rice is taken up promptly and protects farmers from price shocks,” said AFA Director General Bruno Linyiru.
Farmers holding rice stocks have been encouraged to contact NCPB or KNTC for immediate sale.
