Farmers in Murang’a prepare for anticipated enhanced short rains

Murang’a,

Tuesday, October 3, 2023

KNA by Anita Omwenga/Martin Macharia 

Scores of small-scale farmers in Murang’a County are taking necessary precautions to protect their crops and livelihoods as the anticipated enhanced short rains draw closer.      

A small-scale farmer in Mumbi area, Primerose Wanjiku, who specializes in growing maize and beans told KNA her preparedness plan for the upcoming rains includes digging of trenches in strategic positions in her farm to prevent soil erosion and also investing in tanks for water harvesting.

“I have already started digging trenches on my farm to prevent soil erosion that could cause damage to my crops,” said Wanjiku, adding that she has procured a water tank to harvest rainwater.

The small scale revealed that despite being aware of the government’s efforts to sensitize farmers on how to mitigate the effects of the heavy rains, she decried that they have not received any specific advice or guidance yet from the county government.

In light of this, she appealed to the county government to prioritize improving the town’s drainage system to prevent water from flooding into their farms.

“Well-functioning drainage system in the county will help in channeling water and draining it safely, hence preventing flooding in our farms,” she said, adding that such measures safeguard their crops and livestock, preventing potential losses.

Additionally, Wanjiku advised fellow farmers to consider shifting to crops that require less water. By doing so, they can minimize the risk of damage and losses during the anticipated short rains.

Joseph Kimani, another small-scale farmer, who specializes in tree nursery business near Murang’a town, said that he has moved his seedlings to higher grounds and some few meters away from the river bank fearing they may be washed away by raging waters.  

“My nursery is located near a stream in the area and I fear that the rains may cause it to over flow and the stream might break its banks,” said Kimani as he expresses his concerns about the potential consequences of the upcoming rains.

Kimani acknowledged that while the rains may bring both advantages and disadvantages, it is crucial for the county administration to play its part in protecting farmers’ livelihoods by ensuring proper infrastructure is in place.

“I urge the county government to invest in improving drainage systems and relevant infrastructure within towns and the county as a whole to prevent our properties from being washed away by the rains,” he said.

As farmers brace themselves for the anticipated rains, their appeal to the government highlights the importance of proactive measures such as improving drainage systems as a means where farmers can safeguard their crops and livelihoods, minimizing potential losses and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

Heavy rainfall experienced in the county has in the recent past caused flooding and landslides in parts of the country. 

Courtesy; KNA