The biting cold and persistent rainfall currently being experienced in Kericho County have brought discomfort to residents.
But for the county’s largely agriculture-driven economy, the prevailing weather is being viewed as a positive indicator for improved production and a promising New Year.
According to the Kenya Meteorological Department (Kenya Met), parts of the Rift Valley, including Kericho, continue to receive rainfall, with some areas recording moderate to heavy showers accompanied by low temperatures.
The cold and wet conditions have already been felt across the county, particularly during early mornings and evenings, affecting movement and day-to-day activities.
The current weather pattern appears to mark a paradigm shift from previous years, when the close of the year and the beginning of the following year were largely dictated by prolonged dry spells.
Residents say the traditionally dry December–January period has in recent years given way to wetter conditions, a change that could significantly influence agricultural planning and productivity.
Despite the short-term challenges posed by the cold and rainy weather, farmers say the rains are timely and largely beneficial.
Kericho’s economy is anchored on tea farming, alongside maize, beans, potatoes and dairy production, all of which depend heavily on adequate and well-distributed rainfall.
KNA interviewed several residents who shared their views on the impact of the rains and their expectations for the coming year.
“These cold rains are uncomfortable for residents, but from a farming perspective they are very encouraging because in the past we would be struggling with dry weather at this time, yet now the tea bushes are well supplied with moisture, which raises expectations of better yields in the coming months,” said Mr. Johana Kerich, a tea farmer in Ainamoi Sub-county.
Small-scale food crop farmers have echoed the optimism, noting that improved soil moisture will support land preparation and early planting ahead of the next farming season.
“The weather has clearly changed compared to previous years because we used to start the year worried about drought, but now the rains are giving us hope for good harvests, better food security and improved incomes for our families,” said Ms. Selina Chebet, a farmer in Soin Sigowet.
Kenya Met has, however, urged residents to remain vigilant, warning of possible localised flooding in low-lying and poorly drained areas.
Motorists have also been advised to exercise caution due to slippery roads and reduced visibility during periods of heavy rainfall and fog.
As the year draws to a close, the prevailing mood in Kericho County remains one of cautious optimism, with many residents hopeful that the apparent shift from dry to wetter end-year conditions will lay a strong foundation for increased agricultural productivity, stronger rural incomes and bountiful harvests in the New Year.
By Gilbert Mutai
