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Waiguru reacts after UK embassy compares Declan Rice’s performance to Mwea rice
19th July, 2026 12:05 PM
Kenya’s Mwea rice has received international recognition after the British High Commission in Kenya shared a post comparing England football midfielder Declan Rice to the popular rice variety.
The post described the midfielder as “Pure Quality from Declan,” alongside his photo, drawing attention to the famous rice grown in Kirinyaga County.
The recognition quickly caught the attention of Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, who welcomed the comparison and said it reflected the high quality that Mwea rice is known for. She responded by inviting the British team to visit the county and see where the rice is grown.
“Recognition received, @UKinKenya,” Waiguru said on Sunday, July 19, 2026.
The governor said the comparison showed that Mwea rice continues to be recognised as one of Kenya’s best agricultural products. She added that its reputation has always been built on quality.
“When the world’s finest midfielder @_DeclanRice is the one being compared to Mwea Rice, it only confirms what Kenyans have always known: nothing here is second grade. Pure quality isn’t a slogan here; it’s the standard. Bring the squad to Kirinyaga, and we’ll show you where it’s grown,” Waiguru said.
Mwea rice earns praise
The recognition came after Declan Rice captained England to a 6-4 victory over France in Miami. The win secured England a World Cup bronze medal, their best finish at the tournament since lifting the trophy in 1966.
After the match, Rice praised his teammates and expressed confidence in the national team’s direction. He said the squad had shown its strength despite criticism during the competition.
“This is the best England group for a very long time. That’s a fact. No one can take that away from us,” Rice said in a post-match interview.
Mwea rice is one of Kenya’s best-known rice varieties and is mainly grown in the Mwea Irrigation Scheme in Kirinyaga County. It is widely recognised for its sweet aroma, fluffy texture and distinctive taste, making it a popular choice in many homes across the country.
The rice is mainly the Pishori variety, although farmers in the area also grow Sindano and Basmati. The fertile soils, reliable sunshine and water supplied by the Thiba and Nyamindi rivers have helped make Mwea one of Kenya’s leading rice-producing regions.
The mention by the British High Commission has put Mwea rice in the spotlight, highlighting the product’s reputation for quality beyond Kenya’s borders.
