By Samson WireÂ
Usonga residents celebrate as flood-prone area becomes hub of economic empowerment, food security, and premium rice now stocking supermarket shelves
USONGA, Siaya County — What was once a flood-ravaged stretch of land in Usonga is now a beacon of hope and prosperity, thanks to the KSh 60 million Siriwo Rice Milling Plant spearheaded by Governor James Orengo.
The groundbreaking ceremony in April 2023, led personally by Governor Orengo, marked the beginning of a transformative journey. From 2023 to 2024, the Nyalore administration drove aggressive mechanization and processing initiatives, culminating in the construction and installation of a state-of-the-art milling facility. Residents describe the plant as a long-awaited lifeline for their livelihoods.
The project received national recognition when President William Ruto, alongside national and county officials, officially commissioned the mill — a milestone that has delivered sweeping changes across Siaya County.
Despite early hurdles in rice production, Governor Orengo’s administration responded decisively with additional budgetary allocations and strategic interventions. The result: surging paddy output, consistent processing, and a thriving value chain.
Key Impacts Reshaping Siaya
– Food Security & Nutrition: High-quality rice products now enhance meals for primary school pupils countywide while bolstering household food security.
– Economic Empowerment: Farmers gain direct market access through the mill, bypassing middlemen and securing fairer prices for their paddy.
– Reduced Post-Harvest Losses: Modern processing minimizes wastage and optimizes yields.
– Job Creation & Capacity Building: Local residents benefit from training, employment, and broader economic growth.
Today, Siriwo rice — packaged in various consumer-friendly sizes — graces shelves in major supermarkets within and beyond Siaya County. Priced competitively yet maintaining premium quality, the brand is quickly gaining loyal customers.
The success of the Siriwo project underscores Governor Orengo’s campaign cornerstone: prioritizing food production and security. What began as a manifesto promise has become tangible progress, proving that strategic investment in agriculture can turn vulnerable communities into engines of growth.
For Siaya residents, the mill is more than infrastructure — it is proof that vision, commitment, and community partnership can rewrite the future.
