Farmers in Kenya are facing increased risks of pest outbreaks and crop diseases as El Niño rains are expected from October. The Kenya Meteorological Department forecasts above-average rainfall from October to December, with the rains likely to continue into February 2027. This could lead to flooding, stagnant water, humidity, and moisture levels that favour pests and crop diseases.
AAK-GROW, an organisation representing stakeholders in the pest control sector, has issued a warning in a statement. The wet conditions could increase pest activity and outbreaks, including the resurgence of pests that had been suppressed by earlier weather conditions. Farmers have been urged to activate pest surveillance and early warning systems in their regions and remain alert for migratory pests.
The organisation has advised farmers to watch for possible outbreaks of fall armyworm, stem borers, and diamondback moths later in the rainy period. Prolonged wetness and high humidity could also increase the risk of fungal diseases. Farmers have been advised to maintain proper spacing and plant density, use raised beds where possible, and inspect crops regularly to detect infections early.
AAK-GROW has also recommended that farmers prune excess branches on fruit trees and maintain adequate stocks of appropriate preventive fungicides. They have also been urged to use certified seeds and protect harvested produce from moisture through timely harvesting or artificial drying. Increased moisture could create conditions favourable for aflatoxin development.
The group has called for early weed control and adjustments to herbicide application to reduce the risk of products being washed away by rainfall. They recommend integrated weed management practices such as cover crops, mulching, and conservation agriculture. This can help minimise avoidable losses and protect farm productivity, livelihoods, and food security.
AAK-GROW has also called for farm inputs to be pre-positioned in areas expected to record high demand. Flooding, damaged infrastructure, and poor road connectivity could disrupt supplies of pesticides, fertilisers, seeds, and vaccines. Farmers have been urged to guard against counterfeit products, particularly during stock-outs and delays in resupply.
The organisation has advised farmers to ensure animals receive vaccinations on time, as wet conditions and flooding could increase animal health risks. They have also warned of risks to human health, with flooding and stagnant water potentially increasing mosquito populations and the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. Farmers and households have been urged to use treated mosquito nets and rely only on approved mosquito insecticides and repellents.
Key points
- El Niño rains expected from October could lead to increased pest outbreaks and crop diseases in Kenya.
- Farmers urged to activate pest surveillance and early warning systems to mitigate risks.
- AAK-GROW calls for farm inputs to be pre-positioned in areas expected to record high demand.
