Governor Waiguru dismisses Gachagua claims of Mwea Rice market crisis

In a statement issued on Monday, February 2, 2026, Waiguru said she rarely responds to what she described as petty allegations but felt compelled to address what she called misinformation about the status of Mwea rice and Kirinyaga’s development agenda.

Waiguru said the National Government has already taken up all rice that was in county stores, a move she said has secured farmers’ incomes.

“I usually do not respond to petty allegations, recognising that not every provocation deserves the dignity of response, but on this one, allow me to bring to the attention of Rigathi that we have no issue with Mwea rice and to clarify that the National Government has already uptaken all rice in our stores, securing our farmers’ incomes,” she said.

The governor accused Gachagua of politicising development issues, arguing that leadership should be measured by practical interventions rather than rhetoric.

“These sort of interventions are what true leaders engage in, the rest we leave to activists,” Waiguru added.

She also rejected claims that Kirinyaga leaders have been compromised, saying elected leaders in the county have made a deliberate decision to work with the National Government in the interests of residents.

Waiguru cited several projects she said have been implemented through cooperation between the two levels of government, including the upgrading of feeder roads in Kagio town and the ongoing construction of the Kagumo–Mununga–Kiamaina–Gathuthuma–Kianjagi Road.

She also referenced the 55-kilometre PI–Murinduko–Kiumbu–Kiandegwa Road, the construction of 11 additional markets, and plans for a dam to support Mwea farmers.

The governor further said coffee farmers’ earnings have improved, with payouts reportedly reaching up to Ksh.148 per kilo, which she described as the highest in the country.

“Our collaboration with the National Government has helped us improve the welfare of our people. Huku ni kazi huongea, and voters will vote based on performance,” Waiguru said.

As the political exchange continues, Waiguru maintained that her administration will focus on service delivery rather than political contests.

“We will go where our people benefit. That is what leadership demands,” she said.