In Nyandarua County, Kinangop, there is growing concern among farmers regarding a potential scarcity of fresh produce following continuous rainfall that has led to significant agricultural damage. The adverse weather conditions have resulted in the destruction of potato crops, anticipated for harvest the following month, with losses amounting to millions of shillings. The heavy rains have also disrupted major transportation routes, exacerbating the already dire situation.
According to Matheri Hungu, a director at Midland Vegetable Processing plant and a prominent farmer, the persistent rainfall has rendered all potato crops in the fields unsalvageable, with waterlogged conditions causing the rotting of certified potato seeds. This situation threatens the livelihood of potato growers in the area. Kinangop North's assistant county commissioner, Marcarius Minyori, highlighted that the heavy rainfall has affected nearly all farms in the region, with the potential for a severe potato shortage looming as many farmers face total crop failure.
Minyori also pointed out the impact of the rains on infrastructure, noting that major roads within the constituency have suffered damage, hindering access to farms and markets. The broader ramifications of these conditions include not only immediate agricultural losses but also long-term food security concerns for the affected families and the region at large.
Source: the-star.co.ke