Small scale farmers in Trans Nzoia cry foul of army worms

Small scale
famers in Kiminini Constituency Trans Nzoia county are worried as pests attack
a number of farms in the area.

With the
planting season in progress, the pests have caused panic among the farmers who
fear that invasion could be worse compared to the desert locusts in the
country.

The pests
which broke out in an onset of the wet seasons have been noted in a number of farms,
as some farmers in the region continue to prepare their farms and others
already planted.

“The pests
have been spotted in several farms around here in Kiminini. I cannot say its my
farm only because they migrate and have seen a number of farmers try to spray,”
said Elisha Wanjala a farmer in Kiminini.

A section of the farm infested by
fall army worms at Mr. Wanjala’s Farm. Image by Sabila

The pests are
known to be difficult to control as the current climatic conditions favours its
growth and development.

“A majority
of farmers planted late due to the current situation in the country and when
they have an opportunity to plant it’s the time when the pests thrive well
because its wet and it has been raining heavily of late.” He added.

The county
agriculture department through the CEC Mary Nzomo received 3000 litres of pesticides
to fight pests in the region.

The CEC
while receiving the pesticide said the county has trained 50 youths as Spray
Service Providers (SSPs) and also has provided them with protective clothes.

A farmer showing the intense of the
damage caused by the pests. Image|Courtesy

She further
urged farmers to report for easier surveillance and assistance.

“I have no
idea about the pesticide received by the county government to assist farmers.
If it is there, then the relevant personnel should make it accessible before we
count losses and the destruction by the pest goes beyond,” Said Mr. Wanjala.

A number of
farmers have resolved to use traditional methods to reduce the spread and
effects of the pest by spraying early in the morning when the pests are active.

Meanwhile, a
section of farmers are counting massive losses after the ongoing rains washed
away their crops in the farm in Namajalala.