SYSTEM OF RICE INTENSIFICATION (SRI): GROWING MORE WITH LESS WATER Promoting the Adoption of SRI in Kenya

KENYANS WANT MORE RICE

The demand for rice in Kenya continues soar as more Kenyans show progressive changes in
their eating habits, coupled with urbanization. Rice is currently the third most important cereal
crop after maize and wheat. The national rice consumption is estimated at 300,000 metric tons
compared to an annual production range of 45,000 to 80,000 metric tons. The deficit is met
through imports, valued at Ksh.7 billion in 2008. Moreover, rice is currently the most expensive
cereal (or any grain) in the country, retailing at about Ksh.150-200/kg. Most of the rice in Kenya
is grown in irrigation schemes established by Government, which include Mwea, Bura, Hola,
Perkera, West Kano, Bunyala and Ahero. Smaller quantities are produced along river valleys.
About 80% of rice in Kenya is grown under continuous flooding as is typified in the Mwea
Irrigation Scheme. The paddy system of rice production depends on a continuous supply of
water for irrigation and soils with high water holding capacities. Even in Mwea, water scarcity in
times of drought means the scheme has ration water, like what has happened this year (2009).
Throughout the country, the shortage of water and land suited for rice production means that
extensive expansion of rice growing farmlands is not a likely option. There is therefore need to
consider water saving alternatives and any intervention that can increase the productivity of rice
and also save on water is a most welcome initiative. The Syste m of Rice Intensification (SRI)
therefore offers this opportunity to improve food security through increased rice productivity,
increase smallholder farmers’ income, water savings and reduce the national rice import bill.
Moreover SRI makes use of assets already available to rice farmers. In Kenya, very few people
know about SRI and this Video Conference is organized to raise awareness, and for learning.


AArticle source:  https://sri.ciifad.cornell.edu/countries/kenya/KenyaBancyGDLNVC091109.pdf