Arise Media 
BY RITA MUTHONI
A surge in rains wreaked havoc on crops, leading to substantial losses to Muguka farmers in the Mbeere region of Embu County, Mbessa Pride Sacco Society, Pius Njiru has said.
Njiru said the heavy rains led to an oversupply of muguka, causing a decline in demand and consequently forcing farmers to sell their produce at substantially reduced prices.
He noted that Saccos that heavily rely on the crop as a source of income are reporting significant losses, amplifying the economic strain on the community.
“The challenges extend beyond the fields, with farmers struggling to meet loan repayment deadlines, adding an extra layer of economic hardship for both borrowers and lending institutions,” he noted.
He said the farmers were also depositing minimal amounts into their savings accounts–thanks to the reduced earnings from the produce.
Njiru said before the heavy rains, farmers could fetch Sh1200 per kilogram, allowing the Sacco to accumulate substantial savings on behalf of the farmers.
“However, with the current weather conditions, farmers are compelled to sell muguka at significantly lower prices, leading to reduced earnings and substantial losses for the Sacco,” he said.
Njiru revealed that a month before rains, Mbesa Pride Society Sacco collected Sh300,000 for member savings noting that the amount was reduced to Sh120,000 in November, recording a deficit of Sh180,000.
Njiru noted that the lack of value-addition options forces farmers to sell their perishable produce at low prices during rainy seasons to avoid spoilage.
Njiru revealed that although a kilo of Muguka fetches a lot of money during dry periods, it does not translate to good profits for farmers because the produce is very low.
Muguka Sacco Society Chairman, Josphat Njue Murithi, suggested that if muguka undergoes packaging similar to tea bags, it could be stored for up to six months, preventing spoilage and enabling farmers to earn handsomely throughout.
The cooperative heads are now urging the County Government to speed up the construction of the County Aggregation and Industrial Park (CAIP), which they believe could facilitate value addition to muguka, ultimately cushioning farmers from losses.
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