The changing climate has significantly impacted plum farming in Nyandarua County, Kenya, leading to a noticeable decline in the industry. This shift has not only affected the agricultural landscape but also the local economy, with the plum industry previously injecting approximately Sh150 million (US$ 1,048,951) annually and supporting over 5,000 smallholder farmers. The scarcity of plums, a vital source of nutrition including vitamins A, C, and K, poses a risk to health and nutrition, particularly affecting young children and breastfeeding mothers.
Unseasonable weather conditions, characterized by unexpected rains and cold spells, have disrupted the flowering period of plum trees, leading to reduced yields and, in some cases, total crop failure. This has had a profound economic impact, with plum prices at the Nyahururu open market rising sharply, turning a once-accessible fruit into a luxury item. The situation has also led to a decrease in business for the local hospitality industry during what was traditionally the plum harvest season.
In response to these challenges, Nyandarua is undergoing an agricultural transformation. The county is exploring alternative crops that are more resilient to the changing climate. Notably, there has been a shift towards apple farming, supported by a Sh26 million (US$ 181,819) investment from the county government. This initiative is backed by research and aims to provide farmers with climate-appropriate apple varieties, which have shown an 85 percent success rate for grafted specimens.
The move to apple farming is not only seen as an economic opportunity but also as a means of environmental conservation. The county's partnership with Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service-certified seedling propagators ensures that farmers have access to suitable varieties that can withstand the climate's challenges. Additionally, the transition aligns with broader environmental efforts, as seen in neighboring Nyeri County, where there has been a significant increase in fruit tree cultivation in areas traditionally known for tea and coffee growing.
As Nyandarua adapts to the impacts of climate change, the shift from plums to apples represents a broader narrative of resilience and innovation in the face of environmental challenges. It underscores the importance of research, diversification, and sustainable practices in ensuring the future of agriculture in the region.
Source: Nation