In a significant development aimed at enhancing the rice production capacity in the Lake Victoria Basin, the government is nearing the completion of installing a modern rice milling machine at the Lake Victoria Basin Authority (LBDA) Rice Mill Complex in Kisumu. East Africa Community and Regional Development Cabinet Secretary (CS) Penninah Malonza announced that the state-of-the-art milling equipment is expected to be operational within three weeks, with an official commissioning ceremony to be led by President Dr. William Ruto.
During a recent visit to the facility to monitor the progress of the installation, CS Malonza highlighted the capabilities of the new machine, which is designed to process 4 tons of paddy per hour. This marks a significant improvement over the facility’s previous machinery, which had seen its output dwindle from an initial capacity of 3.5 tons per hour to just 0.8 tons per hour. The upgrade is anticipated to significantly boost rice production in the region, addressing long-standing issues related to efficiency and output that have impacted local farmers.
CS Malonza underscored the importance of the new milling machine for the agricultural community in the Lake region, particularly for farmers in Ahero who have historically been compelled to sell their produce at undervalued prices. With the enhanced processing capabilities, farmers are expected to benefit from more efficient, timely, and clean processing of paddy, resulting in high-quality packaged rice. This advancement is projected to not only improve the livelihoods of local rice producers but also stimulate economic growth across the region.
The installation of the milling machine, which was delivered in two batches, was delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic. However, its completion is set to provide a much-needed revenue boost for the LBDA. The rice mill complex, established in 1989 as a subsidiary of LBDA, plays a crucial role in the Authority’s efforts to generate income and reduce its dependency on government funding.
CS Malonza’s visit was conducted alongside Regional Development Principal Secretary (PS) Harsama Kello, LBDA Chairman James Diang’a, and LBDA Managing Director (MD) Wycliffe Ochiaga. The initiative to upgrade the milling facilities at the LBDA Rice Mill Complex is part of broader efforts to ensure that Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) are sustainable and can manage their operations independently, including the payment of salaries and other operational costs.
Kisumu City News
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