The government has unveiled a comprehensive plan to combat the infestation of rats and snails plaguing irrigation canals at the Mwea Irrigation Scheme, a problem that has severely impacted rice farmers in the region.

Speaking at the Mwea Irrigation Scheme on Monday, November 25, Water and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Eric Mugaa outlined measures to address the issue. He noted that the pests have significantly reduced rice production and compromised crop quality.

“Today, we’ve seen the challenges facing the Mwea Irrigation Scheme, including the infestation of golden apple snails and rats. This has negatively affected rice production,” Mugaa stated.

To tackle the problem, Mugaa announced the formation of an interministerial taskforce in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, led by CS Andrew Karanja. He further revealed that the county government of Kirinyaga would also be involved in the effort.

ALSO READ: Kenyans to Pay More as Government Increases Fees for Birth and Death Certificates

“I’ve engaged my colleague in the Ministry of Agriculture, and we’ve agreed to establish a taskforce that includes the county government. This is a joint project, and it requires collective action to deliver results for Kenyans,” Mugaa emphasized.

In the short term, biological methods will be implemented, such as introducing small fish, like catfish, to control the snails and using traps for the rats. However, Mugaa acknowledged that trapping rats would not be a sustainable solution due to their high population.

“In the long term, the taskforce will explore advanced and sustainable strategies to deal with this crisis. This issue is new to the Mwea Irrigation Scheme, and we intend to learn from best practices in other irrigation projects,” he added.

Mugaa also reiterated the government’s commitment to boosting rice production at the Mwea Irrigation Scheme. He highlighted the role of Thiba Dam, completed in 2023, in increasing water availability and doubling rice planting seasons.

“The Mwea Irrigation Scheme currently produces 150,000 metric tonnes of rice per season. With double planting seasons, we aim to double this output to 300,000 metric tonnes and, eventually, achieve our national target of 900,000 metric tonnes,” Mugaa affirmed.

ALSO READ: President Ruto Reveals 13 Notorious Gangs Threatening Kenyans in Latest Security Report

He further disclosed plans to expand the scheme’s coverage to 35,000 acres, including developing the 4,400-acre Mutithi area, which will help bridge the current 5,000-acre deficit.

“This is a critical project, and we are determined to meet our production goals while addressing challenges that threaten the livelihoods of our farmers,” Mugaa concluded.