Rice farming in Kenya is a rewarding venture, providing a staple food for millions of people and contributing to the country’s economy. Rice Farming involves various steps including; seedling production, sowing, seedbed preparation, main land preparation, transplanting, main field water management, weeding, pest and disease control, husbandly and harvesting ,threshing, winnowing, drying, storage. About 95% rice production in Kenya is grown under irrigation in paddy schemes managed by the National Irrigation Board (NIB).

History Of Rice Farming In Kenya

Since its introduction in 1907 in Kenya, rice has become the third most important cereal crop after maize and wheat. Due to the progressive change in eating habits of Kenyans, particularly in more urban areas, the annual consumption of rice is increasing at a rate of over 12% in the country. Moreover, the national rice consumption is estimated at 949,000 metric tons compared to an annual production of 180,000.

With a projected population growth rate of 2.7% per year, the estimated annual national need can reach up to 1,290,000 tons by 2030 (National Rice Development Strategy-2, 2019-2030).

Rice is grown in lowland, upland; irrigated paddy or wetland agro-ecosystems. There are several rice varieties grown in Kenya ranging from fixed line varieties to hybrid rice varieties. In Kenya rice is mainly produced by small-scale farmers in Central (Mwea), Western (Bunyala), Coast (Tana Delta, Msambweni) and Nyanza provinces (Ahero, West Kano, Migori and Kuria). The Mwea irrigation scheme is the largest in the country, accounting to about 70% of the paddy rice in Kenya.

Rice production in Kenya is far below the expected supply to satisfy its domestic demand. There are

Several factors which affect or decrease the production of rice:

Use of uncertified seeds
Lack of good rice farming practices and knowledge on rice cultivation
Lack of Agricultural extension services
Poor management of water resources
Reluctance of farmers to embrace modern rice farming technologies like water saving rice culture (WSRC), system of rice intensification (SRI) and alternate wetting and drying of paddy field (AWD)
Pest and diseases challenges

Varieties Of Rice Grown In Kenya

Here is the information about the varieties of rice grown in Kenya.

Basmati 370 is a long-grain, aromatic rice that is popular in Kenya. It is a traditional variety that originated in India.
IR 2793-80-1 is a medium-grain, non-aromatic rice that is high-yielding. It is an improved variety that originated in the Philippines.
Dular is a short-grain, non-aromatic rice that is drought-tolerant. It is a traditional variety that originated in India.
IRAT 109 is a medium-grain, non-aromatic rice that is high-yielding. It is an improved variety that originated in Côte d’Ivoire.
Lemont is a long-grain, non-aromatic rice that is high-yielding. It is an improved variety that originated in the United States.
CSR36 is a medium-grain, non-aromatic rice that is saline-tolerant. It is an improved variety that originated in Kenya.

Important notes:

The production per acre figures are approximate and may vary depending on the growing conditions.
The characteristics of each variety are general and may vary depending on the specific crop.
It is important to consult with a local agronomist expert before planting rice in Kenya, as the growing conditions can vary from region to region.

Ecological requirements on rice farming in Kenya

Rice farming in Kenya, like any other agricultural activity, requires careful consideration of ecological factors to ensure sustainable and productive practices.

Climate:

Rice is primarily grown in regions with warm temperatures and ample rainfall. The ideal temperature range for rice cultivation is between 20°C to 35°C. Excessively high or low temperatures can adversely affect rice growth and yield. In Kenya, rice is grown mainly in lowland areas with enough water availability.

Soil:

Rice thrives in well-drained soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH level (pH 6.0 to 7.0). The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good water-holding capacity. Soil preparation techniques, such as puddling, are commonly used to improve water retention and aeration.

Altitude:

Altitude plays a crucial role in determining the suitability of rice cultivation. Rice is typically grown in lowland areas with altitudes ranging from sea level up to around 1,500 meters. Lowland areas provide the necessary water resources for rice cultivation and are better suited to grow the crop compared to highland areas.

Rainfall:

Rice is a water-intensive crop, and adequate rainfall is essential for its successful cultivation. In regions where rice is grown, the distribution and amount of rainfall are significant factors to consider. The main rice-growing regions in Kenya receive varying levels of rainfall.

Planting Rice In Kenya

Should be done at the onset of rains for rain-fed rice, direct seeding is done in this case. For irrigated rice, raise seedlings on nursery and transplant 3-4 weeks after sowing depending on the variety. Spacing for rain fed rice range between 23-35cm by drill (seed rate 50kg per hectare), for irrigated rice is 15cm-20cm by 20cm (seed rate 50-54kg per hectare).

Choose high-quality rice seeds to ensure a healthy and productive crop. Look for seeds from a reliable source or certified seed providers. Opt for varieties that are well-suited to your region’s climate and growing conditions.

Plan around the rice-growing season.

The best season to grow rice in Kenya is during the long rainy season, which typically occurs from March to May. This period provides the most favorable conditions for rice cultivation due to the availability of ample water from rainfall. Rice is a water-intensive crop, and the long rainy season in Kenya allows farmers to rely on natural precipitation to meet the water requirements for the crop.

Purchase seeds

To purchase rice seeds in Kenya, you can explore various options, including government agencies, agricultural research institutions, seed companies, and agricultural input suppliers. Here are some common sources where you can find rice seeds:

Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO): KALRO is a government agency responsible for agricultural research and development in Kenya. They often distribute improved and certified seeds, including rice seeds. You can visit their regional offices or research centers to inquire about purchasing rice seeds.
Seed Companies: Many seed companies in Kenya specialize in selling various types of seeds, including rice seeds. Some well-known seed companies include East African Seed Company, Kenya Seed Company, and Amiran Kenya. You can visit their local outlets or contact them directly to inquire about rice seed availability.
Agro-dealers and Input Suppliers: Numerous agro-dealers and agricultural input suppliers across the country stock seeds, including rice seeds. They usually offer a variety of seed options suitable for different regions. You can find these suppliers in agricultural markets and towns.
Farmers’ Cooperatives and Farmer Groups: Some farmers’ cooperatives and farmer groups may sell or exchange seeds, including rice seeds, among their members. You can inquire at local farming associations or cooperatives in rice-growing regions.
Online Marketplaces: In the digital era, online platforms have become popular for purchasing agricultural inputs, including seeds. You may find rice seeds available on e-commerce websites like virtual agrovet that cater to agricultural products and inputs.

Soak the seeds.

Fill a bucket with non-chlorinated water and immerse the seeds for 24–36 hours, or until germination begins with small rootlets growing out from the seed.

Prepare your soil.

Rice will grow best in semi-acidic soil that has very little drainage. Heavy clay or loam will retain water well, and you can use mulch, compost, or fertilizer-rich potting soil to create the right environment for growth.

Here’s a brief overview of how to prepare soil for planting:

Clear the Area: Remove any existing vegetation, weeds, and debris from the planting area to create a clean and clear space for cultivation.
Soil Test: Conduct a soil test to determine the soil’s pH level and nutrient content. This helps identify any deficiencies or imbalances in the soil, allowing you to make informed decisions about fertilizer application.
Soil Aeration: Loosen the soil by tilling or plowing the area to improve aeration and root penetration. This helps plants access oxygen and allows water to infiltrate the soil easily.
Organic Matter: Incorporate organic matter into the soil, such as compost, well-rotted manure, or leaf mulch. Organic matter enhances soil fertility, improves water retention, and encourages beneficial microbial activity.
Fertilization: Based on the soil test results, apply appropriate fertilizers to supplement any nutrient deficiencies. Follow the recommended application rates and avoid over-fertilization, which can harm the environment and crops.
Soil Leveling: Ensure the soil surface is level and uniform. This promotes even water distribution during irrigation and prevents waterlogging in low-lying areas.
Soil Moisture: Before planting, make sure the soil is adequately moist but not waterlogged. Planting in excessively dry or waterlogged soil can hinder seed germination and plant establishment.

Prepare your area for planting.

Rice will grow best in full sun and in a waterlogged environment similar to a flooded field. You can grow your rice in gallon buckets, a raised bed like a garden box, or you can create long troughs in the soil in your garden bed that can be filled with water. If you are planting your seeds in a bucket or box, make sure your soil level is at least 6 inches high.

Plant the seeds.

Plant your soaked and germinated seeds in the soil roughly a half-inch deep and with around 6 inches of space between each seed.

Flood your area.

Fill your growing area with water until the soil has saturated and there is at least 2 inches of water above the soil. Your growing area needs to be constantly wet for the seeds to grow, so make sure your water isn’t draining too quickly.

NB: Flood the field 15 days after tillage, before transplanting.

Estimated cost of rice farming and profits per acre

DISCLAIMER: Keep in mind that the below calculations are based on the assumptions provided and can vary depending on actual costs, yields, and market prices at the time of production. It’s essential to regularly update your calculations with real-time data and consult with local agronomists for more accurate estimations.

Land preparation cost: 15,000 KES per acre
Seed cost: 6,000 KES per acre
Fertilizers and pesticides: 20,000 KES per acre
Labor costs: 25,000 KES per acre
Irrigation expenses: 10,000 KES per acre
Machinery and equipment: 8,000 KES per acre
Miscellaneous expenses: 6,000 KES per acre

Additionally, we will assume an expected yield of 6,000 to 8,000 kilograms of rice per acre, and the market price of rice is 40-120 KES per kilogram depending on variety and other factors of production.

Expected Cost of Rice Production per Acre:

Total Expected Cost = Land preparation + Seed cost + Fertilizers and pesticides + Labor costs + Irrigation expenses + Machinery and equipment + Miscellaneous expenses

Total Expected Cost = 15,000 + 6,000 + 20,000 + 25,000 + 10,000 + 8,000 + 6,000 Total Expected Cost = 90,000 KES per acre

Expected Profits from Rice Production:

To calculate the expected profits, we need to determine the total revenue and then subtract the total cost.

Expected Yield: 6,000 to 8,000 kilograms per acre

Total Revenue (at 6,000 kg/acre) = Expected Yield * Market Price Total Revenue (at 6,000 kg/acre) = 6,000 kg * 40 KES/kg Total Revenue (at 6,000 kg/acre) = 240,000 KES per acre

Total Revenue (at 8,000 kg/acre) = Expected Yield * Market Price Total Revenue (at 8,000 kg/acre) = 8,000 kg * 40 KES/kg Total Revenue (at 8,000 kg/acre) = 320,000 KES per acre

Now, let’s calculate the expected profits:

Expected Profit (at 6,000 kg/acre) = Total Revenue – Total Cost Expected Profit (at 6,000 kg/acre) = 240,000 – 90,000 Expected Profit (at 6,000 kg/acre) = 150,000 KES per acre

Expected Profit (at 8,000 kg/acre) = Total Revenue – Total Cost Expected Profit (at 8,000 kg/acre) = 320,000 – 90,000 Expected Profit (at 8,000 kg/acre) = 230,000 KES per acre

So, the expected profit per acre for rice production in Kenya ranges from 150,000 KES to 230,000 KES, depending on the actual yield achieved.

Rice Maturity Time:

As mentioned earlier, the time rice takes to mature can vary depending on the variety and climate. In general, rice takes around 100 to 200 days from planting to maturity.

Fertilizer and Spray Program on Rice Farming in Kenya

Fertilizer

Nitrogen: Rice is a nitrogen-hungry crop, so it is important to apply adequate amounts of nitrogen fertilizer. The amount of nitrogen fertilizer needed will vary depending on the variety of rice, the soil type, and the expected yield. However, a general rule of thumb is to apply 100-150 kg of nitrogen per acre.
Phosphorus: Phosphorus is also an important nutrient for rice, but it is not needed in as high of amounts as nitrogen. The amount of phosphorus fertilizer needed will vary depending on the soil type, but a general rule of thumb is to apply 20-30 kg of phosphorus per acre.
Potassium: Potassium is also an important nutrient for rice, but it is not needed in as high of amounts as nitrogen or phosphorus. The amount of potassium fertilizer needed will vary depending on the soil type, but a general rule of thumb is to apply 10-20 kg of potassium per acre.

Spray Program

Weed control: Weeds can be a major problem in rice fields, so it is important to control them. There are a number of herbicides that can be used to control weeds in rice fields. The specific herbicide that is used will depend on the type of weeds that are present.
Disease control: Diseases can also be a problem in rice fields, so it is important to control them. There are a number of fungicides that can be used to control diseases in rice fields. The specific fungicide that is used will depend on the type of disease that is present.
Insect control: Insects can also be a problem in rice fields, so it is important to control them. There are a number of insecticides that can be used to control insects in rice fields. The specific insecticide that is used will depend on the type of insect that is present.

Pests and Diseases Affecting Rice Farming In Kenya

Here are some of the common pests and diseases that can affect rice production in Kenya:

Common Pests:

Rice Stem Borers (Chilo partellus and Maliarpha separatella): These are major pests that bore into the rice stems, causing dead hearts and whiteheads, leading to reduced grain filling and yield loss.
Rice Gall Midge (Orseolia oryzae): The larvae of this insect feed on the developing rice grains, leading to grain sterility and yield reduction.
Rice Thrips (Stenchaetothrips biformis): Thrips feed on rice leaves, causing silvering and scarring, which affects photosynthesis and overall plant health.
Rice Bugs (Leptocorisa spp.): These insects feed on rice grains, causing direct yield loss and reducing grain quality.

Common Diseases:

Rice Blast (Pyricularia grisea): One of the most destructive diseases affecting rice worldwide, rice blast causes lesions on leaves, nodes, and panicles, leading to yield reduction.
Sheath Blight (Rhizoctonia solani): This disease affects the sheaths of rice plants, causing lesions and leading to reduced plant vigor and yield loss.
Bakanae Disease (Gibberella fujikuroi): Also known as “foot rot,” this disease causes seedling death and reduces plant stand and yield.
Bacterial Leaf Blight (Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae): This bacterial disease causes leaf lesions and can lead to extensive yield loss if not managed.

Integrated Pest and Disease Management (IPDM) practices are essential for effective control. These include a combination of cultural, biological, and chemical methods:

Cultural practices: Crop rotation, proper field preparation, maintaining optimum plant spacing, and timely planting can help reduce pest and disease pressure.
Biological control: Encouraging natural predators and parasites that feed on pests can help keep their populations in check.
Resistant varieties: Planting rice varieties with resistance to specific pests or diseases can be an effective strategy for management.
Chemical control: When necessary, judicious use of insecticides and fungicides following recommended dosages and timings can help control pests and diseases.

Regular monitoring of the rice crop for pest and disease presence is crucial for timely intervention. It’s also essential to adopt good agricultural practices, including water and nutrient management, to enhance the crop’s resilience and reduce stress, making the plants less susceptible to pests and diseases.

Rice Market In Kenya

Rice is a staple food in Kenya, and the demand for rice is growing. The average Kenyan consumes about 70 kg of rice per year, and this number is expected to increase in the coming years. The main drivers of rice demand in Kenya are population growth, urbanization, and rising incomes.

Kenya is not self-sufficient in rice production, and the country imports about 60% of its rice needs. The main rice-producing areas in Kenya are the Lower Tana River, the Lake Victoria basin, and the Rift Valley. The main varieties of rice grown in Kenya are Basmati, IR8, and Taichung Native 1.

The price of rice in Kenya varies depending on the variety, the quality, and the location. The average price of rice in Kenya is about KES 120 per kilogram. However, the price of rice can be higher in urban areas than in rural areas.

The rice marketing channels in Kenya are complex and involve a number of actors, including farmers, traders, wholesalers, retailers, and consumers. The main marketing channels for rice in Kenya are the formal market and the informal market.

The formal market for rice in Kenya is relatively small, and it is dominated by a few large companies. The informal market for rice in Kenya is much larger, and it is dominated by a large number of small-scale traders.

FAQs

What are the main varieties of rice grown in Kenya?

The main varieties of rice grown in Kenya are Basmati, IR8, and Taichung Native 1. Basmati is a long-grain, aromatic rice that is popular in Kenya. IR8 is a high-yielding, non-aromatic rice that is widely grown in Kenya. Taichung Native 1 is a drought-tolerant rice that is grown in the drier parts of Kenya.

What are the main factors that affect rice production in Kenya?

The main factors that affect rice production in Kenya are soil quality, water availability, fertilizer use, and pest and disease control. Soil quality is important for rice production because rice is a heavy feeder and needs a lot of nutrients. Water availability is also important because rice is a water-intensive crop. Fertilizer use can help to increase yields, but it is important to use the right amount of fertilizer to avoid burning the plants. Pest and disease control is also important to prevent crop losses.

What are the different types of rice farming systems in Kenya?

There are two main types of rice farming systems in Kenya: irrigated rice farming and rainfed rice farming. Irrigated rice farming is the most common type of rice farming in Kenya, and it is practiced in areas with reliable water supplies. Rainfed rice farming is practiced in areas with less reliable water supplies, and it is more risky than irrigated rice farming.

What are the main steps involved in rice farming in Kenya?

The main steps involved in rice farming in Kenya are land preparation, seedbed preparation, transplanting, water management, weeding, fertilization, pest and disease control, and harvesting. Land preparation involves clearing the land and preparing the soil for planting. Seedbed preparation involves preparing the seedbed for transplanting. Transplanting involves transplanting the seedlings into the field. Water management involves managing the water supply in the field. Weeding involves removing weeds from the field. Fertilization involves applying fertilizer to the field. Pest and disease control involves controlling pests and diseases in the field. Harvesting involves harvesting the rice crop.

What are the main challenges facing rice farmers in Kenya?

The main challenges facing rice farmers in Kenya are low productivity, high production costs, and inadequate irrigation infrastructure. Low productivity is a major problem in the rice sector in Kenya, and it is due to a number of factors, including poor soil quality, inadequate use of fertilizers, and pests and diseases. High production costs are also a major challenge in the rice sector in Kenya, and they are due to the high cost of inputs, such as fertilizers and pesticides. Inadequate irrigation infrastructure is another major challenge facing the rice sector in Kenya, and it limits the area that can be planted to rice.

What are the government’s efforts to support rice farming in Kenya?

The government of Kenya is supporting rice farming in a number of ways, including providing subsidies for fertilizers and pesticides, providing training to farmers on rice production, and investing in irrigation infrastructure. The government is also working to improve the marketing of rice in Kenya.

What are the opportunities for rice farming in Kenya?

The demand for rice in Kenya is growing, and the government is investing in the rice sector. This creates opportunities for rice farmers in Kenya.

What are the risks associated with rice farming in Kenya?

The main risks associated with rice farming in Kenya are pests and diseases, drought, and flooding. Pests and diseases can cause significant crop losses. Drought can reduce yields, and flooding can damage crops.

What are the best practices for rice farming in Kenya?

The best practices for rice farming in Kenya include using high-quality seeds, preparing the soil properly, transplanting the seedlings at the right time, managing the water supply effectively, controlling pests and diseases, and harvesting the crop at the right time.

What are the future prospects for rice farming in Kenya?

The future prospects for rice farming in Kenya are positive. The demand for rice is growing, and the government is investing in the rice sector. This creates opportunities for rice farmers in Kenya.

What are the challenges that need to be addressed in order to make the rice sector in Kenya more competitive?

The main challenges that need to be addressed in order to make the rice sector in Kenya more competitive are low productivity, high production costs, and inadequate irrigation infrastructure. Low productivity needs to be addressed by improving soil quality, using better varieties of rice, and using more efficient irrigation methods. High production costs need to be addressed by reducing the cost of inputs, such as fertilizers and pesticides. Inadequate irrigation infrastructure needs to be addressed by investing in irrigation schemes.

What are the government’s plans to increase rice production in Kenya?

The government of Kenya has a number of plans to increase rice production in Kenya. These plans include:

Investing in irrigation schemes.
Providing subsidies for fertilizers and pesticides.
Providing training to farmers on rice production.
Promoting the use of improved varieties of rice.
Investing in research and development.

What are the challenges to increasing rice production in Kenya?

The main challenges to increasing rice production in Kenya are:

Low productivity.
High production costs.
Inadequate irrigation infrastructure.
Lack of access to credit.
Poor market infrastructure.

What are the benefits of rice farming in Kenya?

The benefits of rice farming in Kenya include:

Rice is a staple food in Kenya, and there is a growing demand for rice.
Rice farming can be a profitable business.
Rice farming can provide employment and income for rural communities.
Rice farming can help to improve food security in Kenya.

What are the risks of rice farming in Kenya?

The risks of rice farming in Kenya include:

Pests and diseases.
Drought.
Flooding.
Market volatility.
Low prices.

What are the resources available to rice farmers in Kenya?

The resources available to rice farmers in Kenya include:

The government of Kenya provides a number of resources to rice farmers, including subsidies for fertilizers and pesticides, training on rice production, and investment in irrigation schemes.
There are a number of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that provide resources to rice farmers, such as training, technical assistance, and access to credit.
There are a number of private companies that provide resources to rice farmers, such as seed, fertilizer, and pesticides.

What are the opportunities for research and development in rice farming in Kenya?

There are a number of opportunities for research and development in rice farming in Kenya. These opportunities include:

Developing improved varieties of rice that are more resistant to pests and diseases.
Developing more efficient irrigation methods.
Developing new ways to control pests and diseases.
Improving the marketing of rice in Kenya.

What are the challenges to research and development in rice farming in Kenya?

The main challenges to research and development in rice farming in Kenya are:

Lack of funding.
Lack of skilled researchers.
Lack of access to research facilities.
Lack of coordination between different research organizations.

What are the future prospects for rice farming in Kenya?

The future prospects for rice farming in Kenya are positive. The demand for rice is growing, and the government is investing in the rice sector. This creates opportunities for rice farmers in Kenya. However, there are also a number of challenges that need to be addressed in order to make the rice sector in Kenya more competitive.