Mwea MP Mary Maingi Reaffirms Support for Rice Farmers, Rules Out Privatization of Mwea Rice Mill

Mwea Member of Parliament Mary Maingi has reaffirmed her commitment to protecting the interests of rice farmers, assuring them that the Mwea Rice Mill will not be privatized and that government policy remains firmly aligned with safeguarding local production.

Ms. Maingi spoke during a meeting with farmers from the Mwea Irrigation Scheme, where she assessed the progress of ratoon farming and addressed concerns that have recently emerged within the rice sector. She emphasized that the mill’s ownership structure remains unchanged, with the National Government holding 55 per cent of the shares and farmers owning 45 per cent.

“The Mwea Rice Mill will not be privatized. The only option available is for the government to sell its shares to the farmers so that the mill remains fully in the hands of the people of Mwea,” she said.

The legislator further revealed that, following her engagement with the National Government, rice valued at Sh500 million has already been purchased from Mwea farmers. She added that she has received firm assurances that no rice imports will be allowed until locally produced stocks are fully exhausted, a move aimed at protecting farmers and guaranteeing them a fair and stable market.

Farmers also welcomed improvements in water availability, attributing the progress to newly constructed water tunnels that are channeling more water deeper into the irrigation scheme. Ms. Maingi noted that improved water access is already translating into better productivity.

In addition, she disclosed that she has actively lobbied for the Nyamindi Dam project at Ngucui, which is expected to significantly expand irrigation coverage in the region.

“The Nyamindi Dam will allow us to grow more rice and help bridge the gap between Mwea’s production and the national demand,” she said.

Ms. Maingi also acknowledged emerging challenges affecting farmers, including the increasing destruction of rice crops by snails. She said consultations with relevant government offices are already underway to identify lasting solutions to the problem.

Reaffirming her commitment to the farming community, the MP said rice farming remains the backbone of Mwea’s economy and pledged to continue advocating for better water infrastructure, fair markets, and sustainable growth of the sector.

“I will continue standing with our farmers as we work together to secure a stronger and more prosperous future for Mwea,” she said.