Rice is an increasingly important staple food in the East African Community (EAC). Although some of the six partner states produce it, there is a heavy reliance on imports to meet shortfalls in the demand driven by evolved consumer preferences and a growing middle class.
According to a 2014 study done by Kilimo Trust, consumption of rice within the region grew at an average of four per cent per annum between 2002 and 2012.
