The Impact of the Drought -- No Rain Since February 2005 - Donate

Submitted by Colleen Walton
January 31, 2006

Muchui Womens Group members greeted Farmers Helping Farmers volunteers in January with their traditional fanfare and generosity. However, the impact of the African drought on these women, and their families, could not be overlooked.

In previous years, good crops of maize, beans and vegetables were always present when we visited. While visiting the women in 2006 we found that maize, beans and vegetable crops have failed to thrive as there has been no sustained rain since February 2005. The women have little food or water on their shambas and virtually no maize or beans to harvest. As well, many of them do not have the money to purchase water and consequently some tree seedlings have died.

There is optimism that rains will come in March, however with no crop to harvest and no cash from seedling sales, they have no seeds to plant.

In order to see this group of hardworking good farmers meet their long term goals, despite this “cash flow” problem, the FHF volunteers felt compelled to help. We organized to provide two types of maize seed; certified, drought resistant and non–hybrid seed to provide seed to save, bean seeds and fertilizer for the March planting. In addition to support the neediest families, about 40 of the 62, will receive two 90 kg bags of maize (for food) and have their water tanks filled. This will see these families through this difficult time and allow them to resume their entrepreneurial activities of raising seedlings, raising crops for food and cash and generally improving their lives. Pictured: Jeff Wichtel is presenting the Muchui women with some maize seeds.

This initiative was presented to the women’s group while the FHF volunteers were in Kenya. While the seed was ‘appreciated’ the provision of food and water, “to make the women strong for the planting season” was greeted with uproarious applause and in some cases tears.

FHF volunteers working with the group in Kenya in Feb 2006 have pledged significant personal funds to this initiative. In addition we are asking for your generosity in supporting these women during this difficult period in their lives. $130 will cover the cost of providing food, water, seed and fertilizer to a family of ten to get them on their feet again. While FHF traditionally involves itself in sustainable development initiatives, this request is really a short term solution to getting these energetic and strong women on their feet to continue on their path to self sufficiency.

We thank you in advance for your support. If you would like to support our cause please click here to donate.