Farmers in Gatundu North, Kenya, are expressing concerns over increased avocado theft, leading to substantial losses. The situation has escalated as avocados remain a lucrative product. During a recent event where 20,000 avocado seedlings were distributed by area MP Elijah Njoroge Kururia at Kamwangi, farmers accused local youths of orchestrating these thefts.
Farmers report that their farms are frequently raided, with stolen avocados sold to brokers allegedly collaborating with the thieves. Margaret Wanjiru, a local farmer, stated, "We have been doing our best to grow avocados, which have good returns but our toil is usually enjoyed by criminals who steal the fruits at night. Unless the crime is stopped, we will continue channeling our energy towards farming but benefiting other quarters."
Farmers rely on avocado sales to meet basic needs and are urging local authorities to address criminal activities and broker involvement. Gatundu North deputy county commissioner Margaret Mbugua confirmed receiving numerous reports of youth gangs targeting farmers. She issued a warning that law enforcement will take stringent actions to apprehend those responsible, stating, "We have a court of law within Kamwangi and our message to the thieves is simple, you will rot in jail if you don't transform."
MP Kururia echoed these sentiments, urging authorities to enhance protection for farmers, stating, "If you don't farm on your land and enjoy your toil, you will go farm for the government while enjoying your jail term. Going forward, farmers must be allowed to enjoy their hard work."
Source: People Daily