Maize farming in Kenya, especially in regions like Murang’a, has long been a vital part of household food security and rural livelihoods. Yet today, many farmers are grappling with disappointing harvests and rising food insecurity. Mr. Mwangi, a respected farmer from Murang’a, offers powerful insights into why maize yields are no longer what they used to be and what can be done about it.
- Poor Storage Methods: From Sisal to Plastic
Mr. Mwangi recalls the days when sisal bags were the standard for storing maize. These bags, made from natural fibers, allowed air circulation, which kept maize dry and safe from mold and weevils. Today, most farmers use plastic bags, which trap moisture and create ideal conditions for spoilage and pests. This leads to significant post-harvest losses even before the maize reaches the market or kitchen.
In addition, storage rooms and silos used to be carefully constructed elevated, ventilated, and protected. But now, many farmers store maize in makeshift structures that expose it to dampness, rodents, and theft.
🌱 2. The Type of Seed Matters: Indigenous/local vs. Hybrid
Mr. Mwangi also raises a crucial issue: the type of seed used by farmers. He emphasizes that indigenous/local maize varieties the ones farmers used to save and replant are often more resilient, better adapted to local climates, and produce grain that stores well.
In contrast, hybrid seeds, which dominate the market today, often require more fertilizer, do not tolerate drought as well, and cannot be replanted for a second season without a drop in yield. This forces farmers into a cycle of dependency on seed companies and external inputs.
“With indigenous seeds,” says Mr. Mwangi, “you could plant, harvest, store, and even save some for next season. Today, everything is buy, buy, buy — and still you lose most of it in storage.”
🌾 3. Returning to Food and Seed Sovereignty
Mr. Mwangi’s reflections point to a deeper issue: the loss of control farmers once had over their seeds, their food, and their future. Seed sovereignty the right to save, share, and replant local seeds is under threat. And without it, food sovereignty the right to grow and eat nutritious, culturally appropriate food is nearly impossible.
âś… What Can Be Done?
Here are actions individuals, communities, and policymakers can take:
- Promote indigenous/local seeds: Encourage community seed banks and seed-saving practices.
- Invest in traditional storage(Makumbi): Reintroduce sisal bags and improve granary designs.
- Educate farmers on post-harvest handling: Drying, shelling, and storing practices matter just as much as planting.
- Support agroecology and farmer-led knowledge: Combine traditional wisdom with modern research for sustainable results.
- Promote timely harvesting
🌍 A Call to Act
Mr. Mwangi’s words are not just observations they are a call to return to farm-centered, community-driven agriculture. If we want to restore our maize harvests, we must start with our seeds, our storage, and our sovereignty.
Let’s bring back the wisdom of the past not to go backward, but to move forward stronger.
