This archive report was first published on 27 September 2019.
As we approach the festive season, farmers are reminded to be vigilant about their farm produce, as thefts are on the rise.
According to recent cases, thieves are targeting farms, stealing valuable crops such as melons, maize, bananas, and onions, leaving farmers with significant losses.
One farmer lost a tonne of melons just before harvesting, while another had all his bulb onions stolen, with the thieves cutting off the leaves to show they had all the time.
The price of farm produce is usually high during such times, with a kilo of bulb onions currently selling for Sh80.
But it's not just farm produce that's being stolen; a tomato farmer in Nairobi had her 10,000-litre water tank and drip lines stolen, highlighting the extent of the problem.
So, what can farmers do to protect their investment?
Employing security guards to watch over the farm day and night is a good start, especially for large enterprises.
Consider having a farmhouse where the farmworker resides, which can improve the status of farm security.
Regular impromptu visits to the farm can also help farmers get a true picture of what's happening.
Engaging in farming near one's residential area can facilitate better management and provide a sense of security.
Building good relations with neighbours who can be a source of information in case they see something suspicious is also essential.
Having dogs that are trained not to eat anything strange can help deal with animals such as porcupines, mongooses, and monkeys, and raise the alarm in case they see something suspicious.
Fencing the farm with chain-link or electric fence can keep off thieves, and active security devices such as alarms and surveillance cameras can go a long way in securing the farm.
Some people prefer planting thorny tree species as fences, which works, but such plants in the long run become a hiding place for pests and diseases.
Timely planting and harvesting can also save farmers from theft, as delayed harvesting can make the farm a centre of attraction for would-be thieves.
Branding animals with ear tags and tattoos can help differentiate them from others, and there are several agriculture insurance products that can cushion farmers from theft of their produce and farm machinery, as well as bad weather.
Stay safe, don't gamble with your investment.
