Farmers across Kenya have been urged to prepare for planting as the much-awaited long-rains season is set to begin in mid-March. The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) released its monthly weather outlook on Saturday, March 1, forecasting near to above-average rainfall in several regions of the country.
Dr. David Gikungu, the director of KMD, confirmed that the rains will commence in the western, central, and southern parts of Kenya. The forecast indicates that the high agricultural potential areas of the highlands west and east of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria basin, the central and south Rift Valley, and the southeastern lowlands will experience conducive conditions for farming. Farmers have been advised to liaise with relevant agricultural authorities to maximize their yields.
“The near to above-average rainfall expected over these regions will be beneficial for agriculture. We urge farmers to make necessary preparations for planting,” Dr. Gikungu stated.
The anticipated rains bring relief to many parts of the country that have been struggling with dry conditions. However, the Met Department has also warned of potential flash floods and riverine floods, especially in poorly drained urban centers and along riverbanks.
Regions expected to experience significant rainfall include Nairobi, Kiambu, Embu, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Meru, and Tharaka Nithi. Additionally, the southeastern lowlands, covering Kitui, Machakos, Makueni, Kajiado, and Taita Taveta, will also begin receiving rainfall within the same period.
Counties such as Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Trans Nzoia, Baringo, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Nandi, Nakuru, Narok, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, and Busia are also projected to receive near to above-average rainfall.
However, coastal and northeastern regions, including Mandera, Marsabit, Isiolo, Wajir, and Garissa, may experience near to below-average rainfall, characterized by sporadic showers followed by dry spells.
The increased rainfall is attributed to the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO), a global weather pattern that enhances precipitation when active over a region. Dr. Gikungu noted that the MJO is expected to be in Phase 2 by mid-March, potentially triggering an earlier-than-expected onset of rainfall in some parts of the country.
Farmers are encouraged to take advantage of the forecast by preparing their fields, acquiring necessary inputs, and implementing best agricultural practices to ensure a productive season.
