Agronomists in Kenya are urged to protect the harvest and livestock from El Niño risks

The expected increase in precipitation, high humidity and prolonged dampness can lead to fungal infections, aflatoxin contamination, livestock health problems and a shortage of agricultural inputs. The organization aak-GROW/CropLife Kenya stresses the importance of early preparation to minimize these threats.

To protect crops, farmers need to employ early warning systems and monitor pests, paying special attention to migratory species such as the African armyworm and desert locust, as well as monitoring for the potential return of the maize stalk borer, diamondback moth and armyworm, particularly in early 2027. The likelihood of fungal diseases can be reduced by correct planting density, maintaining distance between plants, using raised beds, regular field inspection and pruning excess branches of fruit trees for ventilation, as well as maintaining stocks of preventative fungicides.

Excess moisture increases the risk of aflatoxin development, so experts advise using certified seed, timely harvesting, and ensuring proper drying and storage. Weed control is complicated by rains, which increase competition and wash away herbicides: early weed removal, precise timing of application, and integrated methods including mulching, cover crops and conservation agriculture are recommended.

Floods can damage infrastructure and roads, disrupting the supply of seed, fertilizer, pesticides and vaccines. Suppliers and agrodealers are advised to pre-position stocks in potentially deficient zones and crack down on counterfeits. Livestock owners are instructed to vaccinate livestock on time in wet conditions. In addition, empty pesticide containers should be safely disposed of to prevent them from entering water bodies during floods, and against mosquitoes near standing water, it is recommended to use treated nets and approved low-toxicity insecticides.