Brace for poor rainfall this year, met official warns Trans Nzoia farmers

KITALE: Farmers in Trans Nzoia County have been asked to prepare for below average rainfall in the March-April-May planting season.

The County Director of Meteorological Services Calisters Wachea disclosed that some areas will receive less than 300mm of rain. To avert possible food shortages, he urged farming stakeholders to educate farmers so as take the necessary precaution on time.

He disclosed that areas including Saboti and Endebbes were set to receive a little bit more rains but others such as Kwanza and Kaplamai would receive depressed rainfall.

“The distribution of rainfall is likely to be poor within the season with possibilities of extending to June. To be on the safe side, I advise farmers to seek guidance from experts in the agricultural sector before planting their crops,” he said.

Wachea also disclosed the rains were expected as from the second and third weeks of March and they will continue for the entire season.

The meteorological expert observed that due to the different weather patterns and rainfall distribution, not all areas in the county would plant the same maize varieties. Mr Wachea was speaking yesterday at a Kitale hotel during a stakeholders forum.

Agricultural Sector Development Support Program County coordinator Mebu Milimo challenged farmers to take the warning seriously and seek expert advice from relevant departments to avoid massive crop losses. She lauded the meteorology department for acquiring more facilities and opening up of more stations that have enhanced efficiency hence boosting accuracy of weather forecasts.

She also challenged farmers not to be too dependent on the traditional modes of farming like rain-fed agriculture and embrace more dependable methods like irrigation.