Tobacco farmers in Migori are counting 83% loss that translates to Sh25 million following the heavy down pour accompanied by hailstone experienced in the area early last week.
According to the assessment done by the Ministry of Agriculture Livestock and Fisheries, Migori County, tobacco farmers in the county incurred a massive loss following the heavy rain, which destroyed different crops in the area.
Speaking to journalists on Sunday, County Executive Committee member in charge of Agriculture Isca Oluoch said that the tobacco farmers in Migori County have lost a total of 4800Kg bags against the annual production of 5766kg.
She said the farmers have adversely been affected, adding that they are likely to produce tobacco leaf amounting to Sh25 million, which translates to 17% only.
Oluoch said that the loss is a big blow to the county, which has been known for its high production in the entire country.
The minister has therefore appealed to tobacco farmers to ensure that they get insurance cover for their crops so that they can always get compensated incase of such uncertainties.
She however assured the farmers that the county is already lobbying the county assembly to assent to a legislation, which shall ensure that an emergency fund is allocated to farmers to address such issues of loss in near future.
Oluoch also urged the farmers to go for early maturing crops as well as to plant early enough in the season so that the crops can escape the prospected harsh weather conditions.