This archive report was first published on 13 January 2020.
On Sunday evening, a swarm of locusts was sighted at the farm of Isaack Ndung'u in Riandira, Mutithi ward, Kirinyaga County. The insects were believed to be desert locusts, which have been causing massive destruction in various counties.
Residents have appealed to the government to deploy experts to confirm the insects and to commence mitigation measures to protect crops in their farms that are nearing maturity. The locusts were reportedly devouring leaves on trees and fence posts.
‘Even as the government confirms if that is desert locust or not, they should be sprayed immediately before they turn on our crops,’ said Isaack Ndung'u.
Farmers in the region are fearful for their maize, rice, nappier grass, vegetables, and other crops that are thriving due to abundant rainfall. Kirinyaga Majority Leader Kamau Murango has appealed to the government not to waste any more time before combating the locusts.
‘Slow response by the government may lead to invasion of farms and the destruction of crops. This would be a double loss to farmers who are already grappling with poor returns from coffee, tea, and milk,’ he pointed out.
Yesterday, officers from the county government were deployed to Embu County to establish the presence of the insects. Runyenjes MP Eric Muchangi has raised concern about the poor response by the government, saying all measures should be urgently undertaken even if that means asking for international help.
