The food insecurity situation in Mwala Sub County is expected to worsen following depressed rains experienced in the months of November and December.
According to the area Agricultural Officer Bernard Yumbya, the sub county received an average rainfall of 176mm against expected rainfall ranging from 261mm to 320mm.
Yumbya said besides being depressed, the rainfall was poorly distributed in terms of time and space with some areas like Muthetheni receiving as little as 102mm.
“Due to the poor rains, crop production is very low with some areas like Muthetheni will have total crop failure especially for the maize,” he said.
Speaking during a Head of Departments meeting for both the national and county governments held at the Deputy County Commissioner’s board room in Makutano, the sub county agricultural officer disclosed that owing to the prevailing situation more than 23,529 residents are in dire need of relief food.
“Muthetheni, Kibauni, Masii and Wamunyu wards are some of the worst hit areas with the highest number of people in need of food intervention,” said Yumbya.
He said the drought stricken residents will require 5,884 and 2,943 bags of maize and beans respectively each weighing 90kilogrammes in the next three months.
“Food prices still remain high with a kilogramme of maize retailing at Sh70 and beans selling between Sh150 and Sh200,”said the sub county agricultural officer.
By Roselyne Kavoo
