At the station, KMD staff collect data on various elements, including rainfall, humidity, and solar radiation.
This data is sent to KMD headquarters, where it is analysed and shared with farmers through platforms such as WhatsApp groups.
Clapham Rhiannon, a Nairobi-based Climate Advisor at the British High Commission, said the project aims to improve weather forecasts to promote better farming practices.
Since 2015, the initiative has helped 2.7 million people in Kenya adapt to climate and weather challenges.
“The advisory services are provided to farmers when needed. This builds trust and empowers them to improve crop production,” Rhiannon said.
She noted that the project has supported women, men, and youth in enhancing food security. The information has also encouraged farmers to venture into horticulture.
During a recent visit to Homa Bay, project stakeholders met with farmers in Lambwe, Suba North constituency, who are using the forecasts to guide their planting.
Among them is Samuel Sana, a bean farmer from Agulu Kituo village.
“Previously, we harvested less than two bags of beans per acre. But since I started following weather information, I now get more than 10 bags from the same land,” Sana said.
ECREA Project Lead Desire Kagabo said the goal is to reach 400,000 farmers across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda.
The project is using various channels to ensure weather and climate information reaches farmers directly.
“Bean yields have more than doubled in the countries we’re working in. There’s clear evidence of improvement, and this has boosted local economies,” Kagabo said.
by BOSCO MARITA
