There is hope for rice growers in the low-lying areas of Usonga in Siaya county following the ground-breaking ceremony of a milling plant.

The ecological zone is very suitable for rice farming owing to the mighty River Nzoia and unique Lake Kanyaboli. For a very long time, the people of Usonga have been growing the high potential crop but with little prospects since they have had to sell the produce before milling. The crop is sold cheaply as paddy to middlemen from Uganda who in turn process and re-sell to the people of Siaya at a high price.
But it is just a matter of time before this experience changes for the better.

On Thursday, Siaya governor James Orengo (pictured) spearheaded the launch of the Siriwo Rice Milling Plant in Usonga.

The factory, once complete, will fill the void that has been missing for eons in the lucrative rice value chain.

Farmers upbeat

The project will cost Ksh60 million and the money has already available in the current financial year, after the Siaya County Assembly approved it upon the governor’s request. Governor Orengo is keen on making Siaya food secure by leveraging on agriculture.

The ‘Usonga Rice’ brand will be the first in the region, a plus to the people with regards to commerce and improved livelihoods.

Orengo remained upbeat the project would be a game changer and called on the inhabitants of Usonga to up their game and sustain the project once it shall have roared.