How Nakuru maize farmers are recovering from post-harvest losses
A farm in Kuresoi North with dry maize that is yet to be harvested due to the ongoing heavy rains in the area.
A section of farmers in Nakuru have decided to make lemonade out of the lemons that is the heavy rains interfering with the maize harvesting season, by planting short term crops.
One of the farmers, Mark Chelimo says some of the crops include beans, canola and peas.
“The unexpected rains have led to post-harvest losses or maize re-germinating while still in the farms. The only way to make up for it is by planting short-term crops,” Chelimo says.
Due to this, Chelimo says farmers who managed to harvest before the rains are getting a better price for their maize, especially if bought at the farm level.
A maize cob rots in a farm in Kuresoi North due to heavy rains pounding the area.
“Currently, a bag of maize is being sold between Sh. 3,400 and Sh. 3,600 at the farm gate, a significant increase from the Sh. 2,500 to Sh. 2,800 range observed during the September-October period. Farmers who sold during that time received lower prices due to unseen market forces,” Chelimo says.
He further explains that very few maize farmers have harvested, especially in the low regions of Njoro, Ngata, and Solai.
“The majority have not, especially in the highland regions such as Molo, Elburgon, and Mauche. The rains have left many farmers in a dilemma and are unsure of what to do and how to even dry the maize after harvesting,” says the 67-year-old.
Chelimo adds that due to the poor weather, trucks and tractors are unable to access the farms.
“I’d also say we are seeing high prices because there has not been any info on the government importing the grain. So currently, we have no competition and the produce is in demand. We are, hence, taking advantage of the monopoly. We hope that even as prices go up, it could get to Sh. 4,500,” he says his eyes lighting up.