Unpredictable Climate Change in Kuresoi North Sub-County, Nakuru County.
For a long period of time, there has been a change in climate in my area due to the human activities such as deforestation especially in the water catchment area of Mau Forest. Unlike before, the weather patterns has changed affecting the crop production due to the prolonged droughts that have never before been experienced in the area.
We have had erratic rainy seasons: protracted dry seasons, late arrival of rains, and at times heavy downpours leading to floods and erosion. This has been linked to the increase in temperature and variation in precipitation.
Our primary activity is farming which is mostly maize, potatoes, tea, beans, and livestock although unpredictable weather has resulted in shorter harvest times , more pests and diseases, reduced production, and more food insecurity.
These transformations cause grave problems. Poverty and hunger have increased as a result of crop failures, which leave going out to find jobs to cater for their families thereby leaving women to take care of the farms individually. To assist, children tend to drop out of school.
The waterborne diseases increase the health risks in the case of scarcity or post-flood contamination. Additionally, during rainy seasons, people tend to lose their means of livelihood due to poor roads that are impassable.
The practice of deforestation in the areas surrounding the Mau Forest complex aggravates the water retention and erosion of the soil. Nonetheless, our community is responding positively. Local projects such as Population, Health, and Environment (PHE) projects have assisted more than 123,000 households in planting trees (2.5 million trees), rainwater collection, kitchen gardens, and enhanced sanitation.
Nakuru County Community groups and volunteers promote fuel efficient stoves and agro-forestry. Climate Change Action Plan (2023-2027) of the county promotes climate smart practices, drought resistant crops, and early warning. There is crop diversification, staggered planting and organic methods, which are a positive move, although we need help to scale up.
