Usage of detergents and pepper to fight army worms
Maize farmers in parts of the North Rift are staring at huge losses as destructive fall armyworms invade their farms. The pests are destroying maize plantations.
Farmers who spoke to The Standard fear losing their investment following high cost of inputs that saw planting fertiliser hit Sh6,000 for a 50kg bag in the current season.
Some farmers said they took loans to meet high cost of inputs and that if the crop is destroyed, they will face more challenges repaying.
In West Pokot, the pests have been reported in Alale, Mnagei, Kapenguria, Siyoi and Chepararia wards. Farmers now appeal for assistance from authorities.
Some desperate farmers have resorted to using soil, detergents and pepper to control the spread of the worms, but in vain.
Mr Ariangiro Philip from Chepareria ward however said using soil or dust did not help much.
Efforts to get comments and extent of infestation from West Pokot Agriculture Executive Mr Evans Menach were futile, as his calls went unanswered.
In Uasin Gishu, the pests have been reported in Sergoit and Kerendile areas in Moiben sub-County.
