Farmers panic as crop failure looms in Ukambani

By Mutinda Mwanzia

A crop failure looms in parts of Ukambani for the second year running following rain failure.

Panic has gripped farmers as crops begin to wither with residents facing starvation. Livestock are threatened due to depleted pasture.

MPs from the region yesterday termed the situation grim and asked the Government to intensify food distribution.

A two-day survey by The Standard in parts of Ukambani established that seasonal rivers had dried up forcing locals to trek long distances in search of water.

Athi-River, which crisscrosses the region, has dried up affecting small-scale farmers who use it for horticulture.

Hardest hit

Districts hard hit include Kyuso, Mwingi, Kitui, Mutomo, Kibwezi, Makueni, Nzaui, Kangundo, Yatta, Machakos and Mbooni.

MPs Victor Munyaka (Machakos town), Charles Nyamai (Kitui West), Philip Kaloki (Kibwezi), Itwiku Mbai (Masinga), Charles Kilonzo (Yatta), Daniel Muoki (Mwala), Isaac Muoki (Mutomo) and Peter Kiilu (Makueni) said crop failure would trigger a rise in food prices.

Mr Nyamai warned that Primary schools may be affected as pupils would be forced to drop out of class due to hunger.

"I appeal to the Government to revive the school feeding programme in areas hit by failed rains," said Nyamai.

Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Kaiti MP Gideon Ndambuki said the Government had made efforts to provide farmers with seeds.

Not pleasant

He admitted the situation was not pleasant in Ukambani and said relief food should be sent there.

Uncertainty has also gripped farmers in other parts of the country due to the erratic rains.

Other regions affected include parts of Central, Coast, North Eastern and Upper Eastern. Farmers’ fears have been confirmed by weather experts, who have warned of poor harvests this season.

Meanwhile, Phoenix Aviation has donated ten tonnes of Insta Health Builder (a high protein food especially suitable for children) every three months to residents of Mbitini, Nguu and Mulala. Chiefs and elders working with local community groups will distribute it.

The first of the consignments was flagged off from Wilson Airport by the Peter Kiilu (Makueni MP) and Bill Parkinson Phoenix Aviation Chairman.

 

 

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