The rice value chain has created about 280,000 jobs as the government expands irrigation farming across the country. Irrigation PS Ephantus Kimotho says more than 300,000 households are directly benefiting from rice irrigation programmes. Rice production increased from 192,000 tonnes in 2022 to 305,000 tonnes last year, driven by improved output in major irrigation schemes including Mwea and Ahero. The government says expanding irrigation remains central to its food security agenda.