Feb 28, 2006

Maasai: Rains Herald Hopes of End to Famine


A heavy shower storm was reported on Friday in the regions of Kajiado where a severe drought had forced Maasai herders to drive their cattle to the city centre, over 40 kilometres away, in search of grazing land
Rain fell in several parts of the country during the weekend, raising hopes of an end to the drought which has hit several regions.

The long-awaited downpour was experienced in Nairobi, Gucha, Kisii and Nyamira, Trans-Mara, Migori and Homa Bay.

Nairobi residents, who have been suffering from the effects of water rationing, heaved a sigh of relief when the light showers came early in the evening.

The showers were also experienced in the neighbouring Ongata Rongai in Kajiado, where a severe drought has forced Maasai herders to drive their livestock to the city centre, over 40 kilometres away, in search of pasture.

A heavy downpour was reported in Kisumu, Kakamega and Butere on Friday and farmers started preparing their farms for the planting season.

Families in cold
Kericho also received continuous heavy rains since Friday to yesterday afternoon, giving hope to tea farmers, whose crop was beginning to dry up.

In Siaya and Bondo districts, heavy storms reaped off roofs of houses leaving families in the cold.
The Metrological Department is on record saying that the heavy rains would be received from mid next month onwards.

Assistant director of meteorological services Peter Ambenje was quoted a fortnight ago saying that despite the onset of the rains, the impact of the current drought would be expected to last until June when crops will begin maturing.

"Even if we receive adequate rainfall during the long-rains season, the impact of the drought will persist for some time," he said.

Source: AllAfrica.com