Capwell Industries rolls out contract farming for high-yielding CIL Komboka rice variety

KENYA – Capwell Industries, a leading food processing company in Kenya, has announced the launch of contract farming for its CIL Komboka rice variety.

This new rice variety is touted for its high yields, drought resistance, and fast maturity, making it an ideal choice for farmers in Kenya’s variable climate conditions.

Under the program, farmers will receive funding, comprehensive agricultural extension services, and guaranteed prices for their harvest, providing them with both financial security and technical support.

Speaking during the launch, Capwell Industries CEO Rajan Shah emphasized the company’s commitment to empowering local farmers.

“Our goal is to create sustainable livelihoods for Kenyan farmers by supporting them with quality seeds, modern farming techniques, and market certainty. This program will also contribute to enhancing Kenya’s food security by ensuring a steady supply of high-quality rice,” Shah remarked.

As part of the initiative, farmers contracted under the CIL Komboka program will be supplied with high-quality seeds and trained on the best agronomic practices. They will also gain access to modern farming technologies designed to optimize yields and minimize resource wastage.

Agricultural extension officers from Capwell will provide continuous on-field support, offering tailored solutions to challenges faced by individual farmers.

This contract farming initiative aligns with national efforts to increase rice production in Kenya and reduce dependency on imports.

Rice is the third most consumed grain in Kenya, with an annual consumption of approximately 1.2 million metric tonnes. The demand for rice is steadily increasing, with an average growth rate of 12% per year over the past decade.

However, local production only accounts for about 230,000 metric tonnes per year, leading the government to import over 700,000 metric tonnes (80%) annually to bridge the gap. This reliance on imports costs the nation roughly US$300 million each year.

The introduction of drought-resistant and high-yielding rice varieties such as CIL Komboka is seen as a crucial step toward reversing this trend.

In addition to its advancements in rice farming, Capwell Industries recently launched Kenya’s first locally fortified rice product. The fortified rice is enriched with essential vitamins and minerals, addressing growing concerns about nutritional deficiencies among consumers.

Sign up to HERE receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.