The hovernment has announced measures to cushion farmers against the effects of drought and climate change as prolonged dry conditions threaten maize production in parts of the country.
Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe said the Government remains committed to protecting farmers and ensuring Kenya maintains adequate food supplies despite changing weather patterns.
Speaking after an assessment tour of Eldoret, Nandi and Trans Nzoia counties, Kagwe acknowledged that drought has affected maize production in some areas but assured Kenyans that measures are being implemented to prevent food shortages and stabilise prices of essential commodities.
“We will not allow Kenyans to suffer from hunger because of the current weather conditions,” he said, reiterating the Government’s commitment to protecting both farmers and consumers.
The CS said maize farmers remain critical to the country’s food security and economy, adding that the Government will continue developing interventions to strengthen agricultural production and cushion affected farmers.
Kagwe also warned against counterfeit seeds, saying the illegal trade undermines agricultural production and causes farmers significant losses. He urged security agencies to intensify the crackdown on dealers in fake seeds.
He called on MPs to support legislation classifying the sale of counterfeit seeds as an economic crime.
Kenya Seed Company CEO Sammy Chepsiror assured farmers that the country has sufficient certified seed stocks.
He revealed that last year’s commercial maize harvest reached nearly 70 million 90-kilogram bags and noted that this year’s production had shown even greater potential before drought conditions affected several maize-growing regions.
