Scores of families in Taita Taveta risk starvation following the destruction of crops by wildlife.

The region received adequate rainfall last year with many farmers, especially at lowland areas, having high hopes of a bumper harvest. The hope has faded after wildlife destroyed crops.

The farmers have accused the Kenya Wildlife Service of failing to tame the animals to enable them harvest the crop. Areas worst hit include Ghazi, Mbulia, Kishushe, Mwachabo, Bura, Marapu, Voi and Birikani where herds of elephants have destroyed maize crop.

In Wundanyi, farmers are experiencing difficulties guarding maize crop from monkeys that have threatened to wipe out the farms. Speaking to the Star yesterday, the farmers accused KWS of failing to respond to distress calls whenever the animals strike.