Garissa: The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has projected that the Western parts of the country are expected to experience enhanced performance in crop and livestock production due to a long rainy season from March to May. However, regions in the North and Central Rift are anticipated to witness a marginal decline in agricultural performance, which could adversely impact the income and livelihoods of the farming communities in these areas.
According to Kenya News Agency, KMD Director Dr. David Gikungu announced the long rain season forecast at a Garissa hotel, urging farmers to consult agricultural experts for guidance on crop and variety selection to maximize yields. He emphasized the importance of waiting for the official onset of the rains for areas reliant on rain-fed agriculture, which is projected to commence in the fourth week of March or the first week of April.
The forecast indicates that the Lake Victoria Basin, Highlands West of the Rift Valley, and both the Central and South Rift Valley will receive substantial rainfall, often exceeding 300mm during the March-May season. Additionally, the Highlands East of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi County, and the Coastal Strip are also anticipated to receive significant rainfall, influencing the agricultural landscape across the country.
The rainy season is expected to conclude in June for most regions, although below-average rainfall is predicted for the northeastern and north coast regions, with rain distribution ranging from poor to fair. Furthermore, warmer than average temperatures are forecasted nationwide, with increased probabilities over Central Kenya, Southeastern Lowlands, South Coast, and parts of the Northeast.