MP Maingi: Mwea Rice Mill not up for privatisation
By Bancy Lole, November 22, 2025Mwea Member of Parliament (MP) Mary Maingi has assured farmers that there will be no rice imports until all Mwea rice is sold.
Speaking on Friday, 21, 2025, when she accompanied Water and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Erick Mugaa on a high-level tour of key irrigation projects in Mwea, she noted that the new canals will give a significant boost to rice production in Mwea, the country’s largest rice-growing region.
Maingi disclosed that the government is planning to construct another major dam on the Nyamindi River, which will support farmers in areas such as Kiamanyeki.
Further, she lauded the national government for compensating farmers who gave way for the canal works, attributing this to President William Ruto’s commitment to supporting farmers.
“There will be no importation of rice until Mwea rice is bought completely. I have already talked to the President to allocate money to buy the rice currently being harvested,” she said.
Maingi further dismissed claims that the Mwea Rice Mill was at risk of privatisation, urging residents to remain calm.
“The mill fully belongs to farmers. As a government, we will continue buying local rice before allowing any importation to protect farmers and stabilise prices,” she said.
She reaffirmed her commitment to work closely with the administration to secure more development for Mwea residents.
CS Mugaa’s assurance
During the visit, the CS inspected the construction of a Ksh1 billion mega irrigation canal in Mutithi Ward, one of the largest ongoing irrigation projects in the area.
Once complete, the canal will supply water to more than 4,000 acres, significantly increasing rice production.
Mugaa said the project, being executed by three contractors, is progressing well and is expected to be completed by August 2026.
“This canal is a game changer for irrigation in this region. It is one of the biggest steps we are taking to expand irrigation and anchor the country’s food security,” Mugaa said.
He added that the total area under irrigation in Mwea has expanded from 25,461 acres to 31,271 acres, reflecting the government’s continued drive to raise productivity.
Further, Mugaa cautioned political leaders against using rice farming for political gain.
“Let’s not bring politics into rice farming. What farmers need now is support to make their work easier,” he said.
Local farmer Peter Chege appealed to President Ruto to fast-track construction of the proposed Nyamindi Dam, describing it as crucial for expanding irrigation into Mwea West.
“Nyamindi Dam will unlock huge irrigation potential. If we have enough water, farmers here can work day and night, Chege said.
He noted that reliable irrigation water remains essential for sustaining high rice production in the region.