The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Security has warned farmers across the country that unseasonal rains in November could damage harvested crops, particularly groundnut, maize, millet, and rice.

In a press release issued on Tuesday, the Ministry said the unexpected rainfall coincides with the harvesting period of major crops, posing risks such as mold growth, fungal contamination, seed germination, discoloration, and reduced market value.

“Moisture penetration can significantly degrade the quality of produce, causing groundnut kernels to swell, discolor, or decay,” the Ministry said.

“Wet and humid conditions may also lead to fungal contamination and aflatoxin production, while harvested seeds exposed to moisture may sprout prematurely.”

The Ministry advised farmers to take precautionary measures to protect their produce.

Recommendations include spreading harvested crops for proper drying, using raised platforms to allow water seepage and aeration, avoiding heaping of groundnuts, millet, and rice, windrowing groundnuts for faster drying, tumbling stacked groundnuts to prevent moisture buildup, storing seeds in dry, ventilated containers, and regularly monitoring for signs of mold.

The Ministry assured the farming community of its continued support and wished farmers a successful harvest season.

By Adama Makasuba