Kenya has been grappling with food insecurity for many years. According to a recent report from the East and Central Africa Food Security and Nutrition Working Group, nearly 2.2 million people in Kenya are experiencing crisis or worse levels of food insecurity. Another 6.4 million people in the country are facing stressed levels of acute food insecurity,
While food insecurity is causing hardship for many, this could be the start of a full-blown crisis in the future. Global food shortages are imminent amidst the intensifying threats of international conflicts, climate change, disruptions in international supply chains, and the high risk of future global pandemics.
As a country, we have to be prepared for these shortages. The aim is not only to secure our people but also to feed other nations and boost our economy in the process.
What’s change needed
Increased investment in grains, maize wheat, and legumes
Kenya is a net importer of staple crops, including maize, wheat, and legumes – a ticking time bomb. For instance, the country relies on 92% of imported wheat to meet the domestic demand, while local production accounts for only 8% of annual consumption, according to the latest data by the Agricultural Food Authority (AFA). Rice imports cover approximately 80% of the annual total consumption. Maize production also falls short of consumption despite the numerous government interventions to boost production. Famines are primarily caused by shortages of grains. Our overreliance on imports of staples puts us at a high risk of a severe food crisis as a result of extreme weather conditions and disruption of the global supply chain. When global food shortages occur, prices tend to increase.
The government needs to intensify its investment in the production of all grain. Our aim should be to become a net exporter of grains to fill gaps caused by conflicts and climate change. It is prudent for the government to improve yields and enhance yields of key grains by providing farmers with affordable access to high-quality seeds, fertilizers, and mechanization services. Also, the current administration must address the issues of high production costs and uncompetitive prices that have pulled many farmers away from white farming. Ultimately, if a farmer cannot make a living from wheat farming, they shift to non-food cash crops, exposing the country to food insecurity. Small-scale farmers should receive incentives, financial and non-financial, to increase productivity and adopt sustainable farming practices.
Expand the country’s food reserves
National food reserves play a critical role in promoting price stability and food security. It’s commendable that the current administration reinstated the Strategic Food Reserve (SFR) system, which had been closed in 2019. However, the government needs to expand the food reserve for lean times ahead. Good governance is critical for the effective operations of our SFR system.
Increased access to irrigation water
Increased access to irrigation water can significantly boost agricultural productivity and food security. It can allow more reliable and consistent crop production, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. The government should fast track the construction of the planned mega dams, and completion of the ongoing dams. Furthermore, it can empower farmers in arid and semi-arid areas to drill boreholes for irrigation.
Increased investment in agricultural R&D and advanced mechanization
Increasing investment in agricultural research and development (R&D) may help boost the productivity, resilience, and sustainability of our food system amidst global challenges. Research fosters the development of new technologies and improved policies, which are crucial for farmers facing multiple challenges, such as climate change, land degradation, and exploitation. Kenya, through institutions such as the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) and the Kenya Agricultural Research Institute (KARI), has a well-established system for agricultural research. However, increased funding for these institutions is required to improve their capacity and ensure the new practices and technologies developed are relevant to existing challenges.
Empower young people to engage in agriculture
Agriculture in Kenya has traditionally been associated with older generations, as more young people have no interest in farming. However, with the persistent food insecurity, the government should increase its efforts to encourage young people into farming. A key part of these efforts is to identify and address obstacles faced by young farmers, including limited funding and limited knowledge. The government could offer young people start-up grants and training to help get their venture off the ground.
Young farmers are more likely to adopt new innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and drones. The application of such innovations can help in making the country’s agriculture more sustainable and efficient. It also helps guarantee Kenya’s food supplies for years to come.
Replace outdated cash crops like Miraa (Khat) and Tobacco
The economic cost of tobacco and khat (miraa and muguka) is substantial when compared to their economic benefits. For instance, evidence shows that khat use is associated with mental health disorders. The economic cost of tobacco use was found to range between Kshs 73.5 billion and Kshs 102.1 billion. However, the tobacco industry’s contribution to the country’s GDP stands at only Ksh 34.1 billion. Astonishingly, the government spends millions supporting tobacco and khat farming despite the substantial costs of the two crops.
The government should cease its support for tobacco and khat farming. We should help farmers transition to food crops such as legumes, sweet potatoes, and cassava, a move that could strengthen the country’s food security and protect us against global food shortages.
Read more: Kenya should tap into AI to fight corruption and cut misuse of public funds
