Reports that Kenyan maize farmers lost Sh3 billion to Fall Armyworm attacks last year are worrying.
Maize is the country’s main staple and such attacks pose a serious threat to our agriculture sector.
We urge the government and its international partners to put more effort in tackling the infestation. Adequate financial resources are needed to tackle the pest that has wrought havoc in the continent.
When the Fall Armyworm was first reported in West Africa in 2016, many Kenyans thought that it was a far off problem. Little did they know that it would strike home with debilitating consequences.
It was reported in Western Kenya last year and has since spread to 43 counties.
While it commonly attacks maize, scientists have warned that it is also found in 79 other crops, including rice, wheat , cotton and sugar.
No effort should be spared in taming this dangerous pest.
Farmers need to be enlightened on how to combat the Fall Armyworm.
Experts have recommended a combination of mitigation interventions that include crop rotation, genetic modification of seeds and the use of suitable pesticides.
State agencies must ensure they work in unison with farmers to fight the menace.
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