El Nino preparedness in Samburu

Maralal,

Tuesday October 3, 2023

KNA by Robert Githu

Herders in Samburu County have been advised to avoid grazing their animals in flood-prone areas and along river banks to avoid losing livestock during the expected El Nino rains.

The advisory follows a forecast report by the County Director of Meteorological Services that the region will receive enhanced rainfall during the October-November-December (OND) short rains season.

While presenting the Samburu County seasonal forecast for OND during the County Steering Group meeting, the County Meteorological Department predicted that much of Samburu County is likely to experience enhanced rainfall compared to the long-term rainfall average for OND.

“During this season parts of Samburu West, Samburu North, and Samburu East will receive above normal rains of between 235-534 millimeters which is similar to 1997 OND rains. Both maximum and minimum temperatures are predicted to be normal to above normal while rainfall distribution both spatial and temporal is expected to be poor in October but fair in November and December,” read the forecast report.

The livestock sub-sector also advised individual livestock owners to construct proper housing for their animals and provide good structures for the young stock.

During their presentation, the directorate of roads and public works promised to ensure the maintenance of existing roads and bridges continues to facilitate livestock trade and movement.

On education, the County Commissioner Henry Wafula in collaboration with the County Director of Education were advised to prepare for airlifting of national exams, especially in far-flung areas, and also prepare for emergency school feeding program where flash floods may cut off transportation and movement.

In the crop production Sub-sector, farmers in arable areas of Samburu West have been advised to lay out farm structures for soil and water conservation before the onset of the rainfall.

Farmers were further advised to prepare land early and plant the recommended maize crop varieties such as DH04, DH02, duma, or other maize varieties that take 90-120 days to reach maturity.

Courtesy; KNA