Farmers counting losses after herders invade farms

Farmers counting losses after herders invade farms.

Three people were injured when farmers clashed with herders at Kabatini, Subukia sub-county, yesterday morning.

The clash occurred after armed herders drove their cattle into farms, destroying at least 150 acres of beans, maize, potato, peas, millet and vegetables.

The farmers then impounded some of the cattle, after driving the herders out of the farms. But the herders regrouped and stormed the homestead where the animals were being held leading to a violent confrontation.

“They attacked us with machetes," said John Muturi, who sustained deep cuts on his forehead.

The farmers said they incurred heavy losses besides nursing serious injuries.

"My two acres of maize were destroyed," said James Njehia, who sustained injuries on his jaw.

He said it was not the first time the herders were grazing on private farms since the rainy season began.

Kabatini ward MCA Peter Mbae called for a meeting to ease growing tensions in the area.