Maize farmers in the North Rift Region are raising alarm over possible massive losses in this year’s harvest following a prolonged dry spell that has left crops withering in the fields.
The situation has been worsened by the late disbursement of fertilizers, which affected crops during critical growth stages. Farmers say the four‑week drought has devastated hundreds of acres, threatening food security in one of Kenya’s most productive agricultural zones.
“We fail to understand whether it’s the seeds affecting the health of our crops or it’s climate change,” lamented Bungei, a farmer, as he appealed for urgent government intervention. Farmers are calling on both the national and county governments to provide solutions to cushion them against looming losses.
Agricultural specialists have warned that if the drought persists, the country could face significant declines in maize, beans, tea, coffee, and horticultural produce.
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“Due to prolonged drought in Uasin Gishu and other counties in the North Rift region, there is a possibility we face losses in maize, beans, tea, coffee and horticultural products that will affect the food security of the country, Trans Nzoia being the main food basket,” said Phanice Khatundi, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture and Fisheries.
Due to prolonged drought in Uasin Gishu and other counties in the North Rift region, there is a possibility we face losses in maize, beans, tea, coffee and horticultural products that will affect the food security of the country
Uasin Gishu CECM for Agriculture and Fisheries-Phanice Khatundi
The warning comes at a time when Kenya is grappling with climate change impacts that continue to disrupt traditional farming cycles.
Farmers fear that without immediate intervention, the drought could translate into reduced yields, higher food prices, and increased vulnerability for households dependent on agriculture.
By Ochola Victor
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