Conflicts and water shortage impede advancement of Tana rice initiative
**Agri All Africa International Faces Challenges but Pushes Forward with Rice Production Expansion in Tana River County**
The Tana River Food Security and Development Project, a significant agricultural initiative in Tana River County, is making strides despite facing numerous challenges. Agri All Africa International, a private investor involved in the project, has been working diligently to expand rice production in the region.
The company began operations in 2023, but unfortunately, El Niño floods that same year destroyed 80% of the rice crops that Agri All Africa International had put under production. Undeterred, the company has since renovated the largest rice mill in the country, operated by Tarda, which was in a dilapidated state. Agri All Africa International also encourages farmers to bring their produce for milling at this renovated facility.
One of the key challenges the project faces is water scarcity and silting issues, which have disrupted irrigation for the crops. To address these problems, Agri All Africa International has renovated 43 kilometers of water channels for the Tana River Food Security and Development Project. Moreover, a 450,000 cubic-meter water reservoir and a new intake system have been constructed to combat persistent silting issues and ensure a steady water supply for irrigation.
The project is operating under a Public-Private Partnership model, inviting other investors to boost rice production in the area. As more investors become involved, it is expected that the water issues and legal challenges will be resolved, allowing for larger-scale agricultural development. Felix Koskei, the Head of Public Service, has directed Tana and Athi Rivers Development Authority (Tarda) and the National Irrigation Authority to resolve these issues and encouraged local leaders to allow the project's expansion to create employment and provide food for the community.
Despite the ongoing challenges, Agri All Africa International has created more than 400 direct jobs for the local community. The company's rice is known for its freshness and aromatic quality, selling at higher prices due to minimal storage. The goal is to bridge the 80% rice import deficit that the country currently faces by producing rice at minimal cost through the proper infrastructure laid down by the project.
The Tana River Food Security and Development Project aims to expand to 5,000 acres by February 2026, with a potential to support up to 12,000 acres. The project's success is crucial in mitigating water scarcity and reducing conflicts related to resource competition and climate impacts in the region. While legal and land conflicts exist in the wider region, current developments are geared toward establishing stable water resources to support sustainable agricultural expansion in Tana River County.
- Agri All Africa International, involved in the Tana River Food Security and Development Project, prioritizes investments in environmental-science solutions to mitigate climate-change impacts on their rice production.
- The business sector, including Agri All Africa International, recognizes the importance of science and technology in addressing challenges like water scarcity and increasing efficiency in the agricultural industry.
- In line with their commitment to health and wellness, Agri All Africa International promotes a focus on sustainable food-and-drink production that ensures high-quality, nutritious rice for their customers.
- The financial sector plays a crucial role in the expansion of Agri All Africa International's operations, as investors consider the potential returns on investments in businesses addressing food security and environmental concerns.
- Beyond rice production, Agri All Africa International's initiative contributes to the lifestyle improvements of the local community, providing them with stable employment opportunities and fresh, aromatic rice.
- With their key interest in real-estate development, Agri All Africa International seeks to cultivate a sustainable, energy-efficient infrastructure that supports the growth of their agricultural business and the Tana River County as a whole.
- As a responsible corporate citizen, Agri All Africa International strives to foster a harmonious relationship between business, industry, and the environment, prioritizing the conservation of natural resources and the promotion of a cleaner, greener Earth.
