Kenya consumes 949,000 metric tonnes of rice annually but produces only 180,000 metric tonnes, creating a heavy reliance on imports. Homa Bay County seeks to bridge this gap by expanding local rice production and value addition. The county grows rice varieties like Basmati, IR, NERICA, Mindanao, Dorado, and Nyadundo, with value-added products such as rice flour, bran, snacks, and rice bran oil. Challenges like climate change, pests, and poor infrastructure are being addressed through government support, new technologies, and improved market access. The project requires a USD 3.47 million investment to train farmers, provide modern farming equipment, and build a milling plant. Competition comes from local small-scale farmers, large-scale irrigation schemes, and imports from Thailand, Vietnam, and India. However, strategies like contract farming, technology adoption, and product differentiation will boost competitiveness. The project will also create jobs, requiring agronomists, irrigation technicians, field supervisors, and milling factory staff. Currently, 1,360 acres under irrigation at Kimira Oluch and Maugu schemes support 730 farmers, producing 1,123 metric tonnes per acre at USD 100 per 90 kg bag. Expanding to 3,680 acres, plus 2,750 acres of upland and irrigable shoreline areas, will engage 6,400 farmers and increase production capacity to 6,400 metric tonnes. With government backing and modern techniques, Homa Bay County aims to improve food security, boost farmer incomes, and enhance economic growth.

Agriculture

Agriculture

Equity Investment

3470000

USD

Growth

Currently, 1,360 acres under irrigation at Kimira Oluch and Maugu schemes support 730 farmers, producing 1,123 metric tonnes per acre at USD 100 per 90 kg bag. Expanding to 3,680 acres, plus 2,750 acres of upland and irrigable shoreline areas, will engage 6,400 farmers and increase production capacity to 6,400 metric tonnes. With government backing and modern techniques, Homa Bay County aims to improve food security, boost farmer incomes, and enhance economic growth.

Homa bay County