'Protect Local Rice Farmers!' - Kalonzo Tells Ruto To Restrict Rice Importation

‘Protect Local Rice Farmers!’ – Kalonzo Tells Ruto To Restrict Rice Importation

Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka has accused Kenya‘s Kwanza government of neglecting to restrict the sale of low-cost imported rice to safeguard farmers from unfair competition.

Speaking in Ngurubani, Kirinyaga County, on Saturday, Kalonzo stated that President William Ruto’s administration has failed to ease farmers’ years-long pain.

President Ruto urges the business sector to increase its participation in the tourism sector.

The Wiper party’s leader accused the government of providing licenses to certain individuals to import Pakistani rice.

This is despite Mwea farmers reporting significant losses on their produce over the years as well-connected individuals flooded the market with low-cost items.

Asante Sana Kirinyanga, H.E Kalonzo Musyoka will be back pic.twitter.com/4Z3Na611gV
— Wiper University Chapter (@WiperUniversity) February 23, 2025

“The problem with this government is failing to take responsibility to ensure the issues of Wananchi are addressed,” Kalonzo remarked.

The former Vice President stated that when in office with former President Mwai Kibaki, they collaborated to ensure the water floor in Thiba Dam.

ALSO READ:

This ensured that water flowed continuously throughout the year, increasing rice production.

“Restrict importation then you will see the growth of our people. Why are we creating job opportunities for traders from other countries yet denying our people jobs here,” said Kalonzo.

The Wiper leader stated that rice importers mix cheap foreign rice with Mwea Pishori rice, lowering its quality.

‘Protect Local Rice Farmers!’ – Kalonzo Tells Ruto To Restrict Rice Importation