CS Kagwe assures food security despite drought, expected El Niño

Speaking during a visit to Trans Nzoia County on Thursday, CS Kagwe said the government expects maize production to decline because of the drought mostly experienced in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) counties but has put in place measures to cushion the country against a food shortage.

He said Kenya will import maize to supplement local production, with the government looking to the COMESA region for additional supplies.

While assessing the impact of the dry conditions on maize production and maize seed multiplication. The CS said the government is also satisfied with the country's maize seed stocks despite the dry conditions.

He estimates that between 25 and 30 percent of the seed crop could be lost, but says the country will still have sufficient seed to support farmers during the next planting season.

CS Kagwe said the changing weather patterns are forcing the government to rethink its approach to agriculture and livestock production.

He said climate change is already a reality and the government will continue relying on forecasts and advice from the Kenya Meteorological Department to prepare for drought, El Niño and other extreme weather events.

According to Kagwe, the government's response will remain dynamic because of the increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.

He said the government is preparing contingency plans for both agriculture and livestock to ensure farmers are able to respond to changing conditions.

Likewise, he said Kenya will continue importing commodities such as wheat and rice to bridge the gap between local production and demand.

The CS attributed the continued demand for rice partly to population growth, urbanisation and changing dietary preferences among the country's youthful population.

Sugar production, he added, has recorded a significant increase with output doubling for the first time, adding that it will enable Kenya to reduce, and potentially eliminate, the need for imports.

CS Kagwe maintained that despite the difficult agricultural season ahead, the government has mitigation measures in place to protect food supplies and ensure farmers have access to adequate seed.

He said the government will continue monitoring the weather and adjusting its plans to ensure Kenya remains food secure.

CS Kagwe was accompanied by Trans Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang, Kenya Seed Company Managing Director Sammy Kiplagat Chepsiror, and other county and national government leaders.