The Government of Kenya, through the Ministry of Interior, has banned the planting of maize in two villages in Njoro Constituency, Nakuru County for security reasons.
A statement issued by a chief and doing rounds on social media shows that people residing in Naisut and Sigoan wards will not be allowed to plant maize in their farms this year.
According to the administration, bandits often use the maize fields as hiding places while conducting attacks on other residents.
Those who will be found planting maize this year in the two regions will be arrested and prosecuted according to the notice.
This notice is one of the most ridiculous things to have ever happened this century. One wonders if the Ministry will feed those who won’t plant their food.
Ironically, the two regions heavily depend on planting maize both for commercial purposes and for consumption.
“If one tooth goes bad, do you uproot all the teeth from your mouth?” One of the angry residents asked furiously.
“This Government is the most ridiculous. I have five acres and I employ people who help in planting, weeding, and harvesting. It is what gives me money too. What kind of bull sh** is this?” Asked another equally furious farmer.
It is true that parts of Njoro have been experiencing ethnic clashes among residents coupled with cattle rustling. But why can’t the government do that which is mandated of them and protect the residents? Do they want to starve them to death?
“Farmers are advised to look for alternative crops to plant but not maize. Those found going against will be arrested,” reads part of the letter.
As the residents wait for further information from the Ministry, those preparing their land for maize will have to go back to the drawing board and think of the next step.