An Assessment of the Socio- Economic Status of Rice Farmers in Mwea Irrigation Scheme

Abstract

In 1998 the farmers of Mwea Irrigation Scheme failed to deliver their crops to the National Irrigation Board (NIB) and stopped utilizing all government systems relating to the management of the scheme effectively putting an end to nearly 60 years of government control over the scheme (National Irrigation Board website, 2009). Kenya is currently going through a food crisis and it is important that areas that have potential to produce more be fully utilized. The scheme has potential and since the change over the farmers and farming methods changed. This report is an assessment of the socio-economic status of the rice farmers today. The aim of the study was to review the current status of the rice farmers ten years after breaking away from direct government control. The specific objectives included establishing the current costs of production, rice yields per acreage, current prices, markets and the challenges facing the farmers. Data was gathered through a primary data collection using questionnaires, individual interviews, discussions, observations and literature review for data validation. The data was analyzed through sorting, calculating percentages, calculating and comparing means, condensing information from key farmers and key informants. The researcher concluded that the farmers are faced with high costs of production, lower yields, higher prices for the rice produce, varied markets, over reliance on rice incomes, high household expenses and poor infrastructure in the farming region. The report recommends that, in order to improve farming methods, yields and fully utilize the potential of the scheme, the government need to provide the farmers with assistance in infrastructure maintenance in the farming area, extension services, resolve land ownership issue and research in diseases. The farmers’ would require self reorganization, its recommended that forming of an effective cooperative society would solve most of their challenges by improving bargaining power in purchasing inputs, providing credit facilities and marketing of the rice produce. Building a dam to create a water reservoir would enhance water storage, reduce shortages and streamline rice seasons. This report will be of use to stakeholders, policy makers, academicians, researchers and anyone who will in future be interested in the scheme