Hunger looms as floods destroy food crops under irrigation

Parts of Mandera County could soon face food shortage after more than 1,000 acres of food crops under irrigation were destroyed by flooding.

County officials said on Thursday a flood assessment report conducted by the county government found that about 1,400 acres of food crops were destroyed after flooded River Daua recently burst its banks.

The flooding has affected farmers in riverine areas of Rhamu, Shantoley, Girissa, Kalicha and  Rhamu Dimtu who grow maize, cowpeas, onions, kales, tomatoes, watermelon, citrus fruits, pawpaw and bananas.

Mandera County Agriculture and Livestock executive Johora Mohamed led a team of county officials to assess the damage.

"The expected yields from the farms were affected severely and will result in food insecurity, and force residents to depend on relief food," the report warned.