Rice Farmers in the Lower Kuja Irrigation Scheme, Nyatike Sub-County, Migori, have earned accolades for surpassing the national rice production average, achieving an impressive 3.6 tonnes per acre compared to the national benchmark of 2.8 tonnes.
The remarkable productivity positions the scheme as a leader among rice-growing regions in Kenya.
While speaking during the issuance of KSh 15.2 million in compensation cheques to 177 farmers affected by the scheme’s infrastructural expansion, National Irrigation Authority (NIA) Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Charles Muasya, lauded the farmers’ efforts.
The funds, part of a wayleave agreement for canal passages, add to a previous KSh 17 million disbursed in April to 77 farmers, bringing the total compensation to KSh 36 million.
The government, through NIA, has pledged KSh 68 million to fully compensate affected farmers, enabling the expansion of the scheme to its full 19,000-acre potential.
Currently spanning 7,200 acres, the Lower Kuja scheme generates an annual income of KSh 3.7 billion, cementing its status as a key economic driver in Migori County.
However, Muasya noted that the remaining KSh 32 million in compensation could be released before the end of the 2025/2026 Financial Year if ongoing court cases by some farmers are withdrawn and consent forms signed.
Muasya urged farmers to reinvest the compensation funds into the scheme to boost local revenue and benefit the Nyatike community.
He highlighted NIA’s collaboration with the Migori County government to improve road infrastructure, ensuring accessibility and supporting higher productivity.
“We are committed to working with our vibrant workforce, farmers, and the county to enhance rice production in Nyatike,” he said.
NIA Chairperson, Eng. Gilbert Maluki, outlined a strategic plan to bring all 19,000 acres under production within the next two to three years, backed by a KSh 700 million budget for infrastructure development.
Farmers currently contribute KSh 4,000 per acre annually for operation and maintenance costs, ensuring passable roads, canals, and culverts.
Maluki encouraged farmers to reinvest compensation funds to sustain economic growth in the region, while Lower Kuja Irrigation Scheme Chairperson, Okeyo Oremo, called for land succession to streamline compensation claims.
Oremo also urged the government to upgrade inroads, access roads, check gates, and culverts to enhance transport and productivity.Grace Akinyi, a beneficiary of the compensation, expressed gratitude to NIA for timely disbursements and vowed to reinvest her funds in the scheme to secure her family’s financial future.
She appealed to farmers pursuing legal action to withdraw their cases and claim their rightful compensation.
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