NIA SIGNS NDA WITH MASTERCARD EAST AFRICA LIMITED TO ADVANCE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF KENYA’S RICE VALUE CHAIN

The National Irrigation Authority (NIA) continues to strengthen strategic partnerships aimed at transforming Kenya’s agricultural sector through innovation and digital integration.

Following previous engagements on the proposed Kenya Rice Production Enhancement Programme (KRPEP), NIA convened a high-level meeting with MasterCard East Africa Limited, culminating in the signing of a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). The meeting was led by the Chairman of the Board, Eng. Gilbert Maluki, alongside other senior officers from the Authority. The NDA was signed on behalf of MasterCard by Ms. Tara Nathan, Vice Chair, Mastercard, marking a significant step toward formalizing collaboration between the two institutions.

This important milestone lays the groundwork for structured collaboration focused on the digitalization of the rice value chain.

Through this partnership, NIA seeks to strengthen irrigation management and operational efficiency, promote farmer inclusion through digital financial solutions, improve productivity and coordination across the value chain, and advance national food security while supporting sustainable agricultural growth.

By embracing public-private partnerships and digital innovation, the National Irrigation Authority reaffirms its commitment to modernizing irrigation schemes, empowering farmers and building a resilient, competitive and technology-driven rice sector in Kenya.