A withered maize crop at a farm in Kaptagat, Ainabkoi Constituency, Uasin Gishu County, on August 3, 2026.

📋 Breaking It Down

Many farmers whose maize was destroyed by drought are reluctant to plant early-maturing and climate-resilient crops in the coming short rains season despite the government pumping billions of shillings into subsidised inputs.

It is a wait-and-see situation in maize-growing zones in the North Rift as farmers are doubtful about returning to production after the government reduced the prices of fertiliser and certified maize seed, a move aimed at cushioning them from losses and encouraging them to replant.

“Crop production is not all about lowering the cost of fertiliser and seed. There are other factors like high fuel costs for land preparation, herbicides and labour. We are witnessing unpredictable weather and planting a similar crop for a second time in a season could be risky,” said Mr William Kosgei from Ziwa in Uasin Gishu County.

📌 What You Need to Know

Farmers in the North Rift plant maize once a year. It is the first time in a long time for some of them to replant in the same year after their crop was ravaged by drought and diseases.

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“Farmers are not sure whether to plant or wait until the next season. Unpredictable weather conditions have caused panic among farmers who are not ready to incur more losses,” said Kenya Farmers Association Director Kipkorir Menjo.

Farmers inspect their failed maize crop in Mirera, Naivasha, Nakuru County, on July 12, 2026.

He added that many farmers are repaying loans they secured to plant the crop that was later damaged and lack capital to reinvest in the second crop.

“Those who secured seasonal crop loans from the Agricultural Finance Corporation and other institutions face difficulties in repaying and investing in another crop,” Mr Menjo added.

📰 Source: Nation Africa