Efficient Transport of Cash Crops in Kenya: A Backbone of Agricultural Trade

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  Transportation of cash crops in Kenya plays a vital role in connecting farmers to markets, both locally and internationally. As a country heavily dependent on agriculture, Kenya produces a variety of high-value cash crops such as tea, coffee, flowers, and horticultural products. Ensuring that these products reach markets in good condition and on time is essential for maintaining quality, competitiveness, and profitability. The primary mode of transport for most cash crops in Kenya is by road. Farmers, particularly in rural areas, rely on trucks, pick-up vans, and motorbikes (boda Bodas) to move produce from farms to collection centers or processing facilities. However, poor rural road networks can pose a major challenge, especially during the rainy season. In regions such as Kericho (tea) and Nyeri (coffee), farm-to-market roads often become impassable, causing delays and losses due to spoilage or reduced quality. Once processed, cash crops intended for export are transported t...

A Devastating coastal heavy rainfall.


The public is urged to use caution as Kenya prepares for more intense rain and strong winds. June 14, 2025, Nairobi, Kenya Today, June 14, 2025, the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has issued a high alert for sustained heavy rainfall and strong winds in a number of regions of the country, which will last for the next few days. Much of Kenya is predicted to be affected by the unfavourable weather, with coastal, northeast, northwest, and south-east lowland areas being of special concern.

The KMD's most recent advisory states that strong southerly winds, which started on Friday, June 13th, are predicted to get stronger from now until Tuesday, June 17th, reaching over 30 knots (15.4 m/s). There is a serious chance that these strong winds will uproot trees, blow off roofs, and damage buildings. Large waves, which could reach 2.8 meters, are also a concern for coastal areas as they may interfere with marine activities and impair visibility.

Counties specifically identified as being at high risk include Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, Kwale, Tana River, Taita Taveta, Marsabit, Turkana, Samburu, Isiolo, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Kitui, and Makueni. While strong winds are the primary concern in these areas, other regions, including the Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, Lake Victoria Basin, and parts of the Rift Valley, are also forecasted to experience significant rainfall.

The ongoing "long rains" season, which typically runs from March to May but has extended into June, has already led to considerable challenges across Kenya. As of mid-May, 23 counties had reported impacts, including flash floods, strong winds, and landslides, affecting over 14,793 households and displacing 3,650 individuals. Tragically, 23 fatalities were also reported. The widespread flooding has also contributed to a cholera outbreak in several affected counties, with the Kenya Red Cross Society actively involved in response efforts.

Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to remain vigilant, take necessary precautions, and stay updated with official weather advisories from the Kenya Meteorological Department (meteo.go.ke). Motorists are advised to exercise extreme caution on wet and slippery roads, and those in flood-prone areas should take measures to safeguard themselves and their property. The government, in collaboration with organizations like the Kenya Red Cross, continues to implement preparedness and response measures to mitigate the impact of the ongoing adverse weather.

Sources:

  • Kenya Meteorological Department (meteo.go.ke)
  • Kenyans.co.ke
  • Nairobi Leo
  • ReliefWeb (for flood impact and response data)
  • ICPAC (IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre

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