Equity Bank Kenya has partnered with Agri All Africa, a South African agribusiness firm, in a large-scale rice cultivation project aimed at enhancing food security and reducing Kenya’s rice deficit. The initiative, launched in Gamba, Tana River County, seeks to transform local agricultural value chains and strengthen commercial farming.
The project was officially inaugurated by President William Ruto alongside Priscillah Dimakhatso, Co-founder of Boholo Group and Director at Agri All Africa. Dimakhatso emphasized the strategic importance of the initiative in bridging Kenya’s rice gap, which currently relies heavily on importation.
Key Highlights of the Initiative:
- Public-Private Partnership (PPP): Collaboration with the Tana & Athi Rivers Development Authority (TARDA).
- Scaling Up Production: Over 1,300 acres under rice cultivation, with plans to expand to 4,000 acres by year-end.
- High Yield Potential: Projected annual production of 20,000+ tonnes of rice.
- Local Economic Impact: 80% of the workforce comprises women, fostering community empowerment.
- Sustainable Agriculture: Integration of modern mechanization, irrigation, and climate-resilient farming techniques.
Speaking at the event, Equity Bank Kenya Managing Director Moses Nyabanda reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to agricultural financing, highlighting the sector’s critical role in Kenya’s economic transformation.
“Agriculture is not just a sector to finance—it is a pillar of economic growth. Through our Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan (ARRP), we are working to structure agricultural investments that support smallholder farmers, improve efficiency, and enhance market linkages,” said Nyabanda.
The project aligns with Equity Bank’s ecosystem approach, which includes:
🌱 Technical Assistance: Capacity-building for farmers and agribusiness players.
🌱 Market Linkages: Strengthening the rice value chain from cultivation to processing.
🌱 Tailored Financial Solutions: Customized financing models to support agricultural enterprises.
See also
Bridging Kenya’s Rice Deficit
Kenya imports approximately 1.2 million tonnes of rice annually but produces only 200,000 – 250,000 tonnes, leading to high import costs and economic strain. By implementing large-scale commercial farming and structured partnerships, Agri All Africa aims to significantly reduce reliance on imports and enhance national food security.
“We need long-term commitment and structured financing tools to unlock the full potential of agriculture. By expanding local production and integrating value chains, we can create a self-sustaining agricultural economy,” added Dimakhatso.
With continued institutional backing, this initiative is poised to reshape Kenya’s agricultural landscape, ensuring sustainable food production and economic resilience.
