Published on January 14, 2025 by Agencies for Kenya Online News
Last Updated on 1 year by Agencies for Kenya Online News
Capwell Industries Ltd (CIL) has announced the addition of Komboka Rice, a new long-grain aromatic rice variant to its range of consumer products. The rice variety will immediately be available in retail stores and wholesale centers across the country for consumers.
CIL Komboka Rice is designed to meet the needs of consumers seeking safe, hygienic, and convenient rice options at a more accessible price point, compared to similar premium aromatic varieties. By bridging this gap, Capwell aims to provide value without compromising on quality.
The variety boasts fast maturation and is drought resistant, making it ideal for both rain-fed and irrigated lowlands across Kenya. With high yields of at least 7 tonnes per acre, it also promises better returns for rice farmers, supporting local agriculture and contributing to food security.
“Komboka Rice’s novelty agronomic traits means that the variety is able to perform well across various conditions on the farm. We are working closely with farmers and have rolled out an extensive line-development programme targeting a diverse range of market segments and rice-growing environments to ensure that there is sufficient production to meet consumer demands for years to come,” Capwell Industries CEO Rajan Shah said.
With its availability across the country, CIL Komboka Rice will enhance convenience for consumers, offering quality meal options for families nationwide.
Rice is the third largest consumed grain in Kenya with approximately 1.2 million metric tonnes being consumed per year. Demand has been growing consistently at an average rate of 12% annually over the past decade, making rice one of the staple meals in 97% of Kenyan households.
Capwell has commissioned efforts to support CIL Komboka rice farmers across the country to improve productivity and develop a stable and reliable supply chain. A reliable supply chain will be crucial in ensuring the efficient production and supply of rice from the farm to all consumer touchpoints within the economy while maintaining both quality and price requirements.
Mr. Shah says that Capwell’s investment in rice production and support for farmers will further scale national efforts on ensuring food security for Kenya. Every year, the government imports more than 700,000 metric tonnes to meet the demand for rice in the country. As such, initiatives aimed at increasing production will help offset this deficit.
Developing a reliable supply chain for rice production remains a core focus for Capwell. The company is committed to advancing Kenya’s agricultural resilience and sustainability through continuous support for farmers and strategic investments in food production.
