Panic has gripped residents of Kalimoni village in Juja farm, Kiambu County after suspected locusts invaded their farms destroying vegetation.
They fear that the insects which invaded the area last week in small swarms might invade their farmlands to decimate their crops thereby threatening their livelihoods. The insects are said to have fed on vegetation stems and leaves, turning the bushy area dry.
This led some members of the clergy to hold a four hour prayer meeting in the farmlands to curse the insects and seek spiritual intervention to chase them away. Sadly, the locusts could hear none of the prayers and continued to prey on the vegetation.
The residents faulted the county government for failing to provide timely interventions despite being notified of their presence last week. “We spotted them last week in the area and despite notifying the local and county administration, no action has been taken. The government should respond fast because their invasion on our farms may be detrimental,” said Edwin Wanyoike, one of the residents.
The clergy attributed the insects’ invasion to the sinful nature of the residents hence the need to cleanse the area with prayers. “We need to come together in prayers as this might be some form of punishment due to the sins locals here have committed. These insects needs spiritual battle to leave this place,” said Bishop David Kariuki Ngari of Covenant Clergy Alliance.
By Muoki Charles
