The Kiambu government plans to install automated weather stations across the county in a bid to fast track the flow of weather updates to farmers in a bid to minimise losses as a result of poor climatic conditions.
Once the weather stations are installed, they will help farmers plan their activities prudently, James Mwaura, environment deputy director in Kiambu County said in his office, Thursday.
Mwaura said when farmers get weather updates on time, it helps them know when to plant different crops, hence improve improve food security and alleviate poverty.
“We are currently relying on information that is given by the meteorological department. We have also opened up the sewerage system in Thika town in readiness for the El Niño rains expected in October,” he added.
Mwaura further raised concerns that in the past, the meteorological department has been giving inaccurate information and that they have now partnered with the county government to ensure farmers get accurate information.
He also revealed that the county government has acquired three driers that will help farmers in drying their maize.
He said two driers will be installed in Gatundu and Limuru.