Rice farmers in Ahero, Kisumu County, are counting losses as floods have devastated their paddies.
The National Irrigation Authority (NIA) in charge of Ahero and West Kano irrigation schemes, reports that the flooding resulting from the overflow of River Nyando on Saturday has impacted more than 800 acres of rice plantations.
NIA Scheme Manager, Kennedy Ouma, confirms that the raging floodwaters have completely washed away all the farms.
“We are assessing the damage, but the situation is very bad, farmers have recorded serious losses,” he says.
Ouma mentions that they’re currently conducting assessments to gauge the full extent of the damage. However, he sadly notes that the anticipated bumper harvest for the farmers has now suffered a severe setback.
Moreover, he expresses concerns that this incident could hinder the national government’s endeavors to bolster food security through rice cultivation.
Addressing the situation in Ahero, Ouma highlights that a significant number of farmers had taken loans to invest in their crops. Now, faced with substantial losses, many are reeling from the financial impact, with worries lingering about the possibility of ongoing flooding.
The repercussions of the floods extend beyond the agricultural sector, as they have displaced hundreds in Nyando, resulting in roads becoming impassable
