In Nyandarua County, Kenya, climate change has disrupted plum orchards, leading farmers to explore alternative crops, as reported by Nation Media Group. From 2018 to 2022, plums contributed $1.1 million annually to the local economy, supporting over 5,000 smallholder farmers and their families. The decline in plum production has impacted both the economic foundation and nutritional resources, with plums being a source of vitamin A, calcium, potassium, and vitamins C and K.
The failure of plum crops is attributed to excessive rainfall, even during typically dry seasons, and temperatures rising by 1.2 degrees Celsius (2.2 degrees Fahrenheit) over the past decade. Harvests had already been decreasing by 20% annually in some areas for three years. Nutritionist Emma Kaberi noted, "Scarcity of this fruit is a threat to human health, it shows how the effects of climate change are affecting health and nutrition."
The tourism industry has also been affected, experiencing a 40% drop in seasonal bookings during plum harvest periods. Hotelier Francis Mwaura stated, "Plum buyers gave us some good business," highlighting the economic impact on related sectors.
Farmers are now turning to other crops. Leshau Ward agricultural officer Anthony Wangai mentioned, "New fruit trees that were never grown are now doing well," citing avocados as an example. The Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service is ensuring seedlings are suitable for the changing climate, and research is ongoing to develop resilient apple varieties. Wangai added, "With ongoing research work on apples, the grafted varieties will beat the vagaries of weather."
Source: TCD