Kenya Faces Looming Rice Shortage as Court Blocks 500,000-Tonne Import

Nairobi, August 15, 2025 — Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has cautioned of a severe rice shortage after the High Court temporarily halted the government’s plan to import 500,000 metric tonnes of duty-free rice.

The Court Order and Its Implications

On August 11, 2025, Justice Edward Muriithi of the High Court in Kerugoya issued a conservatory order suspending the Gazette Notice—dated July 28—authorising the duty-free import until December 31, 2025. The action came in response to a petition filed by the Farmers Party, which claimed the move bypassed required public participation and threatened local rice farmers.

A hearing was scheduled for August 14, with further court directions expected on August 15.

Stark Shortages Highlighted in Affidavit

In a replying affidavit, CS Kagwe warned that local rice stocks stood at only 20,000 (50 kg) bags, drastically short of the projected 350,000 bags needed by key institutions like schools, hospitals, prisons, and military units.

He noted that Kenya’s annual rice demand is about 1.3 million metric tonnes, translating to a national requirement of 1.5 million tonnes in 2025—approximately 125,000 tonnes per month.

Risks to Consumers and Institutions

CS Kagwe warned that blocking the imports would likely cause soaring rice prices—currently between Ksh 190 and Ksh 220 per kilogram, up from Ksh 150/kg last year—and disrupt supply chains for essential goods such as maize flour and wheat products.

He stressed that over 95% of the rice to be imported is non-basmati, targeting price-sensitive markets and not competing with local pishori rice.

Arguments from Both Sides

• Farmers Party: Claims the import threatens livelihoods, violates farmers’ rights to property and fair competition, and lacked public consultation—arguing the move misused EAC Customs Management Act provisions.

• Government Position: Maintains that importing rice is a longstanding policy rooted in food security strategy, and that the Ministry continues to procure local rice via the Kenya National Trading Corporation (KNTC) to support domestic producers.

Summary Snapshot

Why This Matters

This dispute highlights Kenya’s delicate balance between ensuring food security and safeguarding local agriculture. With climate pressures and continued demand growth, imports are necessary—but so is the protection of local farming communities and transparent policymaking.