Late and insufficient rains resulted in reductions in plantings and negatively affected yields. Although the short rains maize accounts for only 15 percent of the national production, it is the main crop in Eastern and parts of Central Province. Despite an overall satisfactory food supply, severe food shortages are already being reported, particularly from the marginal lower parts of Kiambu, Kirinyaga, Maragua Thika, and Nyeri districts. The dry weather has also resulted in the deterioration of pastures and shortage of water supplies for livestock.
Food aid is needed for the affected population.
Maize, the main staple, has been estimated at an above average level of 2.34 million tonnes.