Kenyan Farmers Struggle Amid Low Maize Prices

Maize prices in Kenya's North Rift region have significantly dropped to KSh 2,200-KSh 2,700 per 90kg bag from KSh 4,000, prompting farmers like Kiptoo Cheruiyot to consider hoarding their crops until prices stabilize. The Kenya Farmers Association indicates sales will resume post-drying, amidst new government levies on imported cereals that have raised costs for importers. Meanwhile, a partnership in Southern Africa is implementing an Early Warning System to help smallholder farmers combat soybean rust, a significant threat to food security. In California, the Westlands Water District plans to convert farmland into solar power installations as a strategy to adapt to diminishing water supplies. Additionally, rural farmers in South Africa are experiencing a unique planting opportunity due to rare September snowfall, but they face risks associated with potential heavy rains and soil conditions. Despite these challenges, some farmers have adapted their planting methods to create income opportunities through local markets.