Famers should capitalize on the upcoming short rains by planting certified, early-maturing, and climate-resilient seed varieties that can thrive within the limited rainfall period.
This year, Kenya anticipates below-normal harvests due to prolonged drought and poor seasonal rains, leading to significant crop failures in various regions.
In light of these challenges, experts strongly encourage farmers to adopt climate-smart farming practices as they prepare for the September-December short rains.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning that August will largely remain dry across most of the country.
Warmer-than-average temperatures are likely to exacerbate crop moisture stress, diminish pasture availability, and increase water requirements for livestock, especially in arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs).
Felix Koskei, Head of Public Service, emphasized that the recent poor performance of rainy seasons, largely attributed to climate change, has significantly impacted agricultural productivity.
Nevertheless, he reassured that Kenya possesses the potential to produce sufficient food if farmers adopt improved technologies and certified seeds.
“We encountered challenges this year due to crop failures driven by drought and climate change,” Koskei remarked during a meeting of Principal Secretaries at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (Kalro). “However, with the right seeds, appropriate technologies, and timely planting, Kenya can achieve food security.”
He urged farmers to take advantage of the forthcoming short rains by planting certified, early-maturing, and climate-resilient seed varieties.
Koskei also noted that the government is implementing measures to support both farmers and consumers amid reduced agricultural production.
“While we may face below-normal harvests, the government has taken steps to ensure the well-being of farmers and consumers in the market,” he stated.
The National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) reports that drought conditions have intensified in several ASAL counties due to consecutive poor rainfall seasons.
Diminished pasture and water resources have led to increased livestock migration, while household food security has declined in many pastoral areas.
Even in high-potential agricultural zones, uneven rainfall distribution and the early conclusion of the rainy season have hindered crop establishment and diminished expected yields.
The Kenya Meteorological Department indicates that August will offer little relief, with near-average to below-average rainfall predicted only in select regions, including the Highlands west of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Central and Southern Rift Valley, and parts of the Coast.
Most other areas, particularly ASAL counties, are expected to remain predominantly sunny and dry.
Intermittent cool and cloudy conditions, along with occasional light rainfall, are anticipated over the Central Highlands, including Nairobi. While these conditions may help conserve soil moisture, they could also delay the drying of harvested crops.
Warmer-than-normal temperatures across the nation are expected to heighten evaporation and soil moisture loss, placing crops under increased moisture stress and elevating livestock water needs.
Dr. Patrick Ketiem, Director General of Kalro, highlighted that the changing climate necessitates a shift towards crop varieties that can endure shorter and less reliable rainfall seasons.
“Our recommendation for farmers is to adopt certified, early-maturing, and drought-tolerant varieties that are tailored to their agroecological zones,” he stated.
Ketiem encouraged farmers to seek technical guidance before planting to ensure they select the most suitable seed varieties for their specific conditions.
He noted that Kalro has developed a range of climate-smart crop varieties and livestock breeds, expanding access to these technologies through Mkulima Shops, where farmers can obtain certified seeds and scientific advice from researchers.
The institution is also creating a digital farmer database to provide location-specific recommendations based on factors such as soil type, crop choice, and farm size. This initiative will enable farmers to receive timely advisories from scientists.
In the August Agrometeorological Monthly Bulletin, Paul Oloo from the Meteorological Services advised farmers to utilize the current dry conditions to harvest, properly dry, and securely store mature crops like maize and beans to minimize post-harvest losses.
“For crops still in the field, conserve soil moisture through mulching and other appropriate techniques, and irrigate where feasible. In areas experiencing occasional rainfall, monitor crops regularly for pests and diseases, ensuring harvested produce is adequately protected from moisture,” he advised.
Oloo also urged livestock keepers to provide sufficient water, supplementary feed where pasture is scarce, and shelter during cooler periods and from daytime heat.
“Farmers should continue to monitor weather updates and follow guidance from agricultural extension officers to facilitate timely farm decisions,” he concluded.
Agricultural experts assert that with increasing climate variability, timely weather information, certified seeds, and climate-smart farming practices will be essential for helping farmers minimize losses and enhance production during the upcoming short-rain season.
