As rivers in Meru dry up, hopes of a harvest evaporate too

The drought is causing River Kathita, that is mainly used for agriculture and water supply in Meru town, to dry up. PHOTO | ELIJAH MWANGI | NATION MEDIA GROUP

Farmers in Imenti North, Meru County are grappling with a devastating drought that has made rivers dry up.

Some farmers told Nation on Friday that they are expecting harvests to be significantly affected this season.

“My half acre of sukuma wiki withered because I did not have enough water to irrigate the farm” said Mr Jonathan Mathinge, a vegetable farmer.

A spot-check of rivers and streams revealed that the level of water had dropped significantly.

Ms Joan Nkrote, a kales trader, said the vegetable is now going for Sh30 per kilo up from Sh15 and Sh20.

Mr Mathinge pointed out that high cost of food production has forced farmers to increase prices.

Other business entities have also been affected by the dry spell in the county.

Mr Elias Murigi, a car wash attendant along Kanyururu stream, said the amount of water flowing is not enough for their business.

“The level of water has reduced beyond normal. And we have been forced to buy a tank so that we can  store more water.”