Government plans to invest in irrigation schemes to reduce dependence on rain-fed agriculture and boost food security is the only way to end recurrent famines.

Efforts by the Ministry of Agriculture to deal with food insecurity by encouraging farming of more high-value crops should be supported by all. It would be panacea to food crises.

Agriculture is a major contributor to national Gross Domestic Product and must be accorded the first priority in development agenda.

Minister William Ruto’s recent remarks that Kenya has the potential to become the grain-basket for East African region and beyond are true and should be followed to be actualised.

Now the Government should help farmers to double and diversify their activities for the country to have sustainable food production.

The Government should also reform the sector to address problems in the sugar industry.

Above all, all leaders must stop engaging in too much politics and think development and service delivery to salvage our nation from the deep sea of deficiencies.

Kimaiya Kirop, Marakwet.

*****

At last the much-awaited rains have come.

Kenyans are now hopeful it will provide solutions to many shortages including food, water and energy. Water shortage and power rationing should now be a thing of the past.

Our prayers have been heard but we must plan our resources to ensure the shortages would not return to haunt us again.

The Government must think of ways of avoiding famine by providing farmers with quality seeds.

Abdullah Wesamba, Nairobi.