Murang’a County is witnessing a gradual rise in rice cultivation, as farmers explore alternatives to traditional maize and beans farming. In the Kimathi area of Kiharu Constituency, rice paddies are increasingly dotting the landscape, signaling a growing interest in the crop among locals. Phillis Njeri, a 40-year-old farmer, switched from maize and beans to rice in 2019, inspired by the lucrative returns she observed in other regions. Leveraging a two-acre plot and county-supported irrigation, Njeri has successfully harvested up to 20 sacks per season, generating over Sh120,000 in revenue, significantly improving her family’s livelihood.
Experts say rice is a versatile crop that thrives in various soil types—from sandy loam to silty loam—and can withstand flooding, provided there is adequate irrigation. The Kimathi-Githuuri water project, implemented by Murang’a County in 2016, has played a pivotal role in supporting this agricultural transition. Farmers prepare their land through plowing and harrowing, often using combine harvesters borrowed from the Mwea Irrigation Scheme to reduce labor costs and improve efficiency. The crop, which grows between 3.3 and 5.9 feet tall, requires careful management to control weeds and pests, but the financial returns make it an attractive option for both landowners and farm laborers.
Despite its potential, rice farming in Murang’a is still underutilized, with significant market opportunities remaining untapped. Njeri encourages fellow residents to take advantage of available irrigation and invest in the crop, noting that consistent cultivation and proper care can yield substantial profits. As more farmers adopt rice cultivation, the county stands to benefit from improved food security, increased incomes, and a diversification of agricultural production, paving the way for a more resilient local economy.