In parts of western Kenya rains failed in late October and early December. In Kimilili, Bungoma County, maize, beans and cassava stopped growing at the flowering stage. Fields that are usually green turned brown and farmers expect a poor harvest.
Women farmers feel these losses most because they often do much of the farm work but lack access to land, credit, technology and farming advice. Some women plant late when they cannot get money for seed. Households cope by doing casual farm work, running small shops and selling milk, eggs and vegetables. A global project called GBCL is trying to measure crop losses using scientific studies and computer tools, and it is funded by the UK government and the Gates Foundation.
Difficult words
- flowering stage — time when plants make flowers and seeds
- access — ability to use or reach something
- credit — money people borrow to buy things
- technology — tools and machines used to do work
- cope — manage a difficult situation or problem
- measure — find how much or how big something is
- fund — give money to support a projectfunded
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What other ways could families try to cope with a poor harvest?
- Why is access to credit important for women farmers?
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