Famine looms large as crops fail in West Pokot County

By Wilberforce Netya

West Pokot County; Kenya: Food shortage could hit residents of Kacheliba constituency in West Pokot County following prolonged drought that has hit the region.

Area MP Mark Lomunokol has expressed concern over the fate of his constituents stating that approximately 500 farmers have been affected after over 10,000 acres under maize failed.

Lomunokol disclosed the area had a population of about 200,000 people who risked starvation following the crop failure.

Farmers said lack of sufficient rainfall and the scorching sun that was experienced between February and July have affected maize crops in most farms.

A survey by The Standard in the area established most farms under maize in Konyao, Orolwo, Kodich, Natemeri, Kalemeri, Kamla, Ombolion and Kases area had shriveled crops.

Lokichar location resident Mr Simon Akisile said his 12 acres of maize had been affected by the failed rains and appealed to the government to aid families and supply them with relief food.

“We have begun experiencing the negative impact of this drought since we do not have food in our stores, yet we expect no harvest this season,” he lamented.

He pointed out that most villagers relied on selling their livestock to buy food but due to lack of pasture, the animals have also become emaciated making their market price to depreciate.

Akisile revealed a medium sized cow, which was sold at Sh25,000 a year ago could now be sold at only between Sh10,000 and Sh13,000 as they are emaciated.

Kodich primary school head teacher James Amoru said most parents were now contemplating taking their children to boarding schools so that they can benefit from the meals offered in the schools.

However, he said, the school feeding programme, which his school is a beneficiary of, only offers the supplement for lunch.

He appealed to the government to increase the ration to incorporate all pupils who enrol in the school.