Kenya to import 500,000 tonnes of rice duty-free, angering local farmers

NAIROBI, Kenya (MNTV) — Kenya has announced plans to import 500,000 tonnes of rice duty-free by the end of 2025 to curb rising food prices and stabilize supply — a decision that has triggered sharp backlash from local farmers.

In a gazette notice dated July 28, Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi authorized duty-free importation of Grade 1 white rice through Dec. 31. The agriculture ministry says the imports are necessary to meet annual demand, projected at 1.5 million tonnes in a country of 55 million people.

Rice is Kenya’s second most important staple after maize. Domestic production averages about 260,000 tonnes a year, roughly 20% of demand, with the rest mostly imported from India and Pakistan.

Per-capita consumption is forecast to hit 29 kilograms this year, up from 26 kg in 2022.

But growers argue the imports will devastate their livelihoods.

“With such a huge amount of rice being imported when we’ve had relatively good harvests, smallholder farmers will be left with unsold stocks,” said James Maina, a farmer interviewed by local media.

Some farmers have taken the matter to court, accusing the government of ignoring available domestic supplies and failing to consult stakeholders.

Agriculture Minister Mutahi Kagwe defended the plan, saying demand from schools, the military and other institutions far outstrips supply.

“We have always imported rice — an average of 700,000 tonnes annually over the last three years,” he said.

Experts, however, argue politically connected importers benefit most, while smallholders are left behind. Analysts say Kenya risks worsening dependence on imports unless it invests in high-yield rice varieties, modern milling and stronger farmer cooperatives.